How are juvenile cases resolved in court?

In Washington, juvenile cases are resolved in the Juvenile Court. Juvenile cases can be resolved in several different ways. First, a judge can dismiss the case with no further action. This may happen if there is not enough evidence to support the charges or if the juvenile admits their responsibility in the case. In more serious cases, a judge may decide to transfer the case to the adult court system. This will generally occur if the juvenile is at least 16 years old, or the crime is very serious. The juvenile may receive punishments that are similar to those that adult defendants receive in the adult court system. Alternatively, the judge may order the juvenile to participate in programs or services that are designed to address the underlying issues that led to the delinquency. These may include counseling, drug and alcohol treatment, anger management classes, or community service. The judge may also order the juvenile to comply with certain conditions. These conditions may include attending school regularly, avoiding contact with criminals, or refraining from using drugs or alcohol. The judge may also order the juvenile to stay away from the scene of the crime. If the juvenile is found to have violated any of these conditions, the judge can order the juvenile to be detained until the violation is addressed. Ultimately, the goal of the juvenile court system in Washington is to provide rehabilitation and support that will help the juvenile become a productive member of society.

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How are juvenile cases resolved in court?

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