What is a juvenile detention hearing, and what happens during it?

A juvenile detention hearing is a legal proceeding in juvenile court to determine if a minor should be held in a detention facility while their case is being resolved. The purpose of the hearing is to decide whether the juvenile should be detained or released based on the circumstances of the case.

The Process

During the hearing, the minor will have legal representation, typically a defense attorney, to advocate for their rights. The minor has the right to due process, and the judge will consider evidence presented by the probation officer, prosecutor, and defense attorney. Testimony may be heard from witnesses, and the judge will ultimately make a decision based on the information provided.

Implications

If the judge decides to detain the minor, a bail determination may be made. The consequences of a detention hearing can result in the minor being held in a juvenile detention center until their case is resolved. It's crucial for juveniles facing delinquency charges to have proper legal representation to navigate the court system and protect their rights.