Detention in Juvenile Hall

When a youth is physically arrested and transported to Juvenile Hall, the Probation Department’s “screening unit” becomes involved. A screening officer will assess if it is legally possible to release the youth back into the community, or if the youth will be detained and have a judge decide whether to release or keep the youth in Juvenile Hall. If the youth is detained, a probation officer will interview the youth and their parent/guardian about the youth’s background, social history, school history, and the conduct leading up to the arrest. 

If the youth is physically arrested and detained, the Probation Department refers the case to the District Attorney. who will and whether to file the case. The District Attorney will usually consult with the probation officer to learn more about the youth’s circumstances. If the District Attorney decides whether the case can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt and files the case, the document listing the charges(s) is called the “petition.” A youth who is in custody and has a petition filed will usually remain in Juvenile Hall as they await their first court appearance, or “Detention Hearing.” If the District Attorney declines to file a petition, the youth will be released.