What is the first step in the juvenile court system?

The first step in the juvenile court system is intake. At this stage, juvenile cases are initially assessed to determine whether the matter should proceed through the juvenile justice system. During intake, a probation officer or another designated official reviews the case details, including the nature of the offense and the juvenile's background, to decide if formal charges should be filed or if alternative measures should be considered, such as diversion programs.

This process is crucial as it sets the direction for the juvenile's involvement in the system. It aims to ensure that appropriate interventions are identified early on, taking into account the best interests of the juvenile and the community. The intake decision can lead to several outcomes, including the dismissal of the case, referral to counseling or community service, or proceeding with formal charges that would lead to an adjudicatory hearing. This foundational step ultimately influences the subsequent phases of the juvenile court process.