What is the initial step in the juvenile justice process called?

The initial step in the juvenile justice process is referred to as "intake." During this stage, law enforcement or juvenile court officials assess the situation following a juvenile's arrest or referral to the system. This involves gathering information about the juvenile’s background, the circumstances of the alleged offense, and any other relevant factors that may influence the case.

Intake is critical because it determines how the juvenile's case will proceed. It can lead to various outcomes, including further processing in the juvenile court, diversion programs, or even dismissal of the case. The intake process allows for a comprehensive evaluation, ensuring that decisions made are in the best interest of the juvenile and the community.

In contrast, adjudication is a later stage where the court determines whether the juvenile committed the offense. Diversion refers to programs or interventions that aim to redirect juveniles from formal processing in the juvenile justice system. Probation is a form of supervision ordered by the court after a finding of delinquency, indicating that the juvenile has already gone through the adjudication process. Thus, the intake phase is foundational in establishing which path the juvenile's case will take.