Which term is used to describe the process by which a juvenile's case is reviewed by a court before being formally charged?

The term that describes the process by which a juvenile's case is reviewed by a court before being formally charged is known as a preliminary hearing. This stage occurs after a juvenile is taken into custody but before any formal charges are filed, allowing the court to assess whether there is enough evidence to support the charges that might be brought against the juvenile. During the preliminary hearing, evidence and testimonies are presented, and the judge determines if the case meets the threshold for moving forward in the judicial process.

This stage is critical for ensuring that any decision to formally charge a juvenile is based on sufficient evidence, which helps to protect their rights and the integrity of the legal system. It also provides an opportunity for the juvenile and their attorney to understand the evidence against them, laying the groundwork for any future proceedings.

The other terms listed describe different proceedings within the juvenile justice system. A detention hearing typically focuses on whether a juvenile should be held in custody prior to trial. A waiver hearing addresses whether a juvenile should be tried as an adult. An adjudicatory hearing is akin to a trial in the juvenile system, determining whether the juvenile committed the act in question. Each of these proceedings serves distinct purposes within the broader context of juvenile justice.