What is the purpose of juvenile intake?

• A. Screening decisions on whether to charge, divert, or detain and to plan appropriate disposition.
• B. Conducting a full trial.
• C. Sentencing juveniles.
• D. Appointing defense counsel.

Answer: (A)

Juvenile intake focuses on the initial assessment and planning after a referral or arrest. It gathers information from the juvenile, family, school, and other sources to judge risk, needs, and appropriate next steps. Based on this intake review, decisions are made about whether to file formal charges, offer diversion or treatment options, or place the youth in temporary detention to protect safety. It also sets up an initial plan for disposition if the case proceeds, such as probation, counseling, education services, or placement. This stage is about deciding the pathway forward and linking the juvenile to appropriate services; it is not the stage for a trial, sentencing, or routine appointment of counsel.