Juvenile Adjudication Hearing Steps
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A Juvenile “Adjudication Hearing” is basically a “Bench Trial”. In other words, it is a trial directly to the judge, not a jury. The State will proceed first by calling witnesses (both officers and civilians). Defense counsel then has a chance to cross examine each of these witnesses. After the State is done presenting its case, they will rest. At this point, the defense attorney can call witnesses on behalf of the defendant, and he can call the defendant himself (if the defendant chooses to testify). The State will then have a chance to cross examine the defense witnesses and the defendant.
Watch this short video where David explains about Juvenile Adjudication Hearings in Arizona:
If something new is brought up that caught the prosecution off guard, then they can present “rebuttal witnesses” to testify. Again, the defense will have a chance to cross examine those rebuttal witnesses. After all evidence is presented, then each side can make their closing arguments to the judge. Even though the Adjudication Hearing is taking place in Juvenile Court, the State still has to meet the same burden of proof (i.e. guilt beyond a reasonable doubt). If the judge does return a “delinquent” verdict (i.e. a “guilty” verdict) on one or more of the charges, then he will set the case over for a “Disposition Hearing”.
If you or a loved one have more questions about a Juvenile Adjudication Hearing in Arizona, contact DM Cantor and speak to an attorney today.