Outline the proceedings of an adjudicatory hearing, and detail the circumstances under which a bifurcated hearing is carried out

What will be an ideal response?


The answer should include the following points:


  • adjudicatory hearing—fact-finding stage steps—the youth’s plea, the presentation of evidence by the prosecution and by the defense, the cross-examination of witnesses, and the judge’s finding

  • ensure that youths are provided with proof beyond a reasonable doubt—dismisses hearsay from the proceedings

  • youth rights—attorneys and prosecutors are likely to be present

  • ensure that the due process rights of the juvenile are maintained

  • if the youth’s attorney and the prosecutor have agreed on a plea bargain, the agreement is presented to the judge at this time

  • if the judge accepts the plea bargain—sequential hearing—assign disposition

  • if the judge rejects the plea bargain, adjudicatory hearing continues

  • prosecutors present the state’s case—arresting officer and witnesses at the scene of the crime testify—cross-examination by defense attorney—witness presentation—judge’s verdict

  • youth found delinquent at the adjudicatory stage—disposition (sentencing) hearing

  • present trend—bifurcated hearing—split adjudicatory and dispositional hearing—gives the probation officer opportunity to prepare a social study investigation of the youth

Criminal Justice

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