Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

Who is responsible for obtaining a petition in juvenile cases?

1. The juvenile's parents

2. An attorney representing the juvenile

3. An intake officer

4. The judge presiding over the case

The correct answer is: An intake officer

The responsibility for obtaining a petition in juvenile cases typically falls on the intake officer. An intake officer is a designated individual, often within the juvenile justice system, who assesses cases when a juvenile is apprehended or when a complaint is filed against them. The intake officer determines whether the case should move forward and, if so, they prepare and file the necessary legal documents, including the petition that formally brings the case before the court. This role is crucial in ensuring that the juvenile justice process is initiated in a timely and appropriate manner. Regarding the roles of the other individuals mentioned: while a juvenile's parents may be involved in the process, they do not have the responsibility of filing the petition. An attorney representing the juvenile may assist in the legal process and provide counsel, but they typically do not take the lead in obtaining the petition either. Finally, the judge presiding over the case evaluates matters presented in court but does not take on the role of preparing or filing the petition.