Rule 1 Nature and Purpose
Rule Text
Juvenile delinquency proceedings are unique. Although they are similar to criminal proceedings in some ways, they are a speCial type of civil proceeding in which it is not intended that there be any adversaries. The ultimate aim of all concemed should be to assist the child to become a wholesome member of the community. No fees are to be charged in connection with such proceedings, however, except to the extent authorized for criminal cases. All procedure in connection with juvenile delinquency proceedings not expressly covered by law or rule of procedure shall be govemed by the principles of civil procedure. The proceedings areJ)ot to be conducted in the manner of a prosecution, but rather as an inquiry into three things:
(1) Whether the child is a delinquent as defined in the Code,
(2) The cause of the delinquency,
(3) What had best be done to help make the child a good member of Society.