In the juvenile justice process, which term describes the initial step when a case is reviewed?

In the juvenile justice process, which term describes the initial step when a case is reviewed?

• A. Ad Hoc Committee
• B. Indictment
• C. Verdict
• D. Intake

Answer: (D)

Intake is the first screen of a juvenile case, where authorities review a referral to decide the best path forward. An intake officer gathers information, checks jurisdiction, and evaluates factors like safety, risk, and the juvenile’s needs. They determine whether a petition should be filed in juvenile court, whether the case can be resolved through diversion or informal services, or whether it should be dismissed. This step happens before any formal charges or a trial, which is why it’s the initial step in the process. Indictment refers to a formal charge, a verdict is the decision at trial, and an ad hoc committee is unrelated to the juvenile justice review process.

Intake is the first screen of a juvenile case, where authorities review a referral to decide the best path forward. An intake officer gathers information, checks jurisdiction, and evaluates factors like safety, risk, and the juvenile’s needs. They determine whether a petition should be filed in juvenile court, whether the case can be resolved through diversion or informal services, or whether it should be dismissed. This step happens before any formal charges or a trial, which is why it’s the initial step in the process. Indictment refers to a formal charge, a verdict is the decision at trial, and an ad hoc committee is unrelated to the juvenile justice review process.