What is the purpose of a hearing in juvenile cases?

The purpose of a hearing in juvenile cases primarily revolves around determining probable cause and making decisions regarding detention or release. This step is crucial in the juvenile justice process as it allows the court to assess whether there is sufficient evidence to support the allegations against the juvenile and to decide if the juvenile should remain in custody or be released to guardians while awaiting further proceedings.

This initial hearing is an important safeguard for the rights of the juvenile, ensuring that they are not deprived of their liberty without due process. It evaluates the situation before more permanent decisions—such as rehabilitation plans or sentencing—are made. The focus at this stage is on assessing the evidence and considering the juvenile's circumstances rather than imposing punishment or finalizing outcomes. Hence, this aligns directly with the objective of determining probable cause and making an informed decision about the juvenile's status in the system.