Introduction
Table 1
Terminology in the juvenile justice system
Previous
Previous
terminology
terminology
Adjudicatory
hearing
Current
Reform
provision
terminology
terminology
(ifapplicable)
applicable)
(if
Trial
Definition
Definition
A hearing to determine whether the allegations of a
petition are proved beyond a reasonable doubt.
Adjudicated
delinquent
n/a
A youth who has been found or plead guilty in the
juvenile court system.
Delinquency
petition
n/a
A petition that is filed with the court alleging the youth
has violated or attempted to violate any federal or state
law, or county or municipal ordinance.
Detention
n/a
Short-term secure confinement of a minor who is alleged
to have or found guilty of violating laws or ordinances
and requires secure custody for the minor’s own or the
community’s protection, pending disposition.
Dispositional
hearing
Sentencing hearing
Findings of
delinquency
Findings of guilt
Sentence
n/a
Any punishment or disciplinary action ordered by the
court upon a person convicted of a crime.
Disposition
n/a
The disposition is the outcome of the case. Sometimes it
is used to refer to the sentence imposed.
Hearing after a youth is found or pleads guilty in which
the court determines whether to adjudge the youth a
ward of the court and to determine what sentence
should be imposed.
When a judge determines that the allegations of a
petition are proved beyond a reasonable doubt.
Recent changes in legislation—juve