Rule 116.03 Presentation of Evidence

Here's what this rule means for juvenile court cases.

If someone denies the claims made in a juvenile court petition or a motion to change a prior court order, the juvenile officer's lawyer has to present evidence to back up those claims. The juvenile officer cannot just make accusations. Their side has to prove the case with evidence, and a lawyer handles that job.

If the juvenile officer does not have a lawyer, the court needs to appoint one when possible. This appointed lawyer could be the prosecuting attorney or one of their assistants. This makes sure someone with legal training presents the evidence properly, instead of leaving it to someone who is not a lawyer.

This rule protects everyone's rights in the case. It means claims against a family cannot move forward just because someone said they are true. Real evidence has to be presented by a qualified lawyer before the court can act on those claims.