One of the unique aspects of juvenile delinquency procedure is the intake and evaluation process. This mandatory process precedes commencement of a delinquency court action and determines if an initial allegation ever makes its way to court. It is implemented by the court counselor and includes an opportunity for prosecutor review of any decision not to move the allegation to court for judicial processing.
This process exists to:
- determine from available evidence whether there are reasonable grounds to believe the facts alleged are true;
- determine whether the facts alleged constitute a delinquent or undisciplined offense within the jurisdiction of the court;
- determine whether the facts alleged are sufficiently serious to warrant court action; and
- obtain assistance from community resources when court referral is not necessary or allowed. G.S. 7B-1700.