§ 832 Definition of "fact-finding hearing"

A fact-finding hearing is where a judge listens to evidence to decide if the claims in a family offense petition are true. This type of case usually involves accusations that someone in a family or close relationship hurt or threatened another person.

At this hearing, the person who filed the petition doesn't have to prove their case beyond all doubt. They only need to show it's more likely than not that the claims are true. This standard is called a "fair preponderance of the evidence," which basically means the judge just needs to believe the claims are more likely true than false, even if it's just barely more likely.

This hearing is a key step in the case. Based on what the judge decides here, the case can move forward to things like orders of protection or other court actions.