What factors do intake officers normally consider when deciding whether to file formal charges?
The official factors that an intake officer is likely to consider include; a. The severity of the offense . A serious crime is more likely to result in the filing of a complaint than a less serious crime. b. The minor’s age . Complaints are more likely to be filed in cases involving older than younger children. c. The minor’s past record . A formal complaint is more likely when a minor has had previous juvenile court involvement. d. Strength of case . The strength of the evidence that a juvenile has committed a crime. e. The minor’s social history . Complaints are more likely to be filed when children have a history of problems at home or at school. f. The parent’s ability to control the juvenile . If there is a lack of parental control over the juvenile, then the more likely the intake officer will file a complaint. 11. My son has just been arrested by the East Brunswick Police. What should I do now? After a teenager is arrested, then the police officer in charge must decide whether t