Correctional Counselor (CC1) Practice Exam

What is a sustained juvenile adjudication?

1. Finding of guilt in a juvenile proceeding

2. Innocent verdict in adult court

3. Probable cause finding at a hearing

4. Dropped charges against a minor

The correct answer is: Finding of guilt in a juvenile proceeding

A sustained juvenile adjudication refers to a formal finding of guilt in a juvenile court proceeding. In the context of juvenile justice, when a case is adjudicated, the court evaluates the evidence and determines whether the minor has committed the alleged offense. If the court sustains the charges, it means they have found sufficient evidence to conclude that the juvenile is culpable for the actions in question. This can lead to various consequences, such as rehabilitation programs or probation, aimed at addressing the behavior and guiding the youth towards more positive behavior in the future. In contrast, the other options represent different legal concepts that do not align with the definition of a sustained juvenile adjudication. An innocent verdict in adult court does not pertain to juvenile proceedings or the concept of sustenance. A probable cause finding at a hearing may occur during the preliminary steps of a legal process but does not establish guilt. Dropped charges against a minor indicate that the case is no longer pursued, which means no adjudication has taken place. Understanding this distinction is crucial in navigating the juvenile justice system and the implications of legal findings within it.