§ 1044 Definition of "fact-finding hearing"

A fact-finding hearing is the part of a court case where a judge decides if a child has been abused or neglected. The judge listens to evidence and testimony from both sides before making this decision. This is different from other parts of the case, like the hearing where the judge decides what should happen next to protect the child.

Think of this hearing as the stage where the court figures out the facts. The judge is not deciding punishment or next steps yet. The only question at this point is whether abuse or neglect actually happened, based on the legal definitions used in family court cases.

If you are a parent or caregiver involved in this type of case, this hearing matters a lot. The outcome affects what happens later in the case, including decisions about custody, visitation, or services your family may need.