What happens at the contested jurisdictional hearing?
This hearing proceeds like any other criminal court trial but under the rules of Juvenile Court. There are some differences from adult court, but generally the process is the same as adult court. The prosecution has the burden of proving that the charges in the petition are true beyond a reasonable doubt. They will attempt to do this just like in adult court, by calling witnesses and producing admissible evidence in court. The minor and his attorney also have the ability to produce witnesses and evidence in court and the minor and/or parents may also testify. If the prosecution does not prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt, then it is found to be not true. If no charges are found true then the minor is released from the juvenile process and the case is over. If any of the charges are found true the court can either proceed to “Disposition” quickly or refer the matter back to the probation department for a detailed report of alternatives. This process is similar to the sentencing
