What is a detention hearing?

A detention hearing is specifically designed to assess whether a juvenile should be held in detention or released prior to their trial. This critical procedural step occurs shortly after a juvenile is taken into custody, allowing the court to evaluate the circumstances surrounding the case. The decision made during this hearing is based on factors such as the juvenile's risk of flight, the nature of the alleged offense, and whether there are any concerns about public safety or potential harm to the juvenile if they are released.

This hearing is crucial for ensuring that the juvenile's rights are respected while also considering the safety of the community and the individual. It is not related to educational assessments, pleadings before a judge for a case, or consultations with parents, which are different processes addressing distinct aspects of juvenile justice involvement. The focus of the detention hearing is solely on the immediate question of confinement versus release.