What is the process for filing a petition for juvenile delinquency?

In the state of Texas, a petition for juvenile delinquency is a legal document that is filed with a Juvenile Court by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD). The petition can be filed whenever a juvenile is suspected of committing a delinquent act or violating the law. The filing process for a petition for juvenile delinquency begins when a law enforcement officer either makes an arrest or cites a juvenile for committing an illegal act. The officer then prepares an offense report and sends it to the TJJD. The TJJD reviews the offense report and determines if there is sufficient evidence to file a petition in juvenile court. If it is determined that a petition should be filed, the TJJD prepares the document and submits it to the Juvenile Court. The petition typically outlines the charges against the juvenile and the evidence supporting those charges. The Juvenile Court Commissioner then investigates the case and decides if the allegations are true. If the Commissioner finds that the juvenile did commit the delinquent act, the Commissioner will refer the juvenile to a Juvenile Court Judge. At the hearing before the Judge, the Juvenile will have the opportunity to dispute the charges and present evidence. After considering all evidence, the Judge will then render a decision. If the Judge finds the juvenile guilty, the Judge will then impose a sentence. The sentence can range from probation and community service to a period of imprisonment, depending on the seriousness of the offense.

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What is the process for filing a petition for juvenile delinquency?

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