Rule 32 Standard of Proof

This rule explains how much proof the state needs before a court can decide a juvenile did something wrong. The amount of proof needed depends on what type of case it is.

If a juvenile is accused of a delinquent offense, which is something that would be a crime if an adult did it, the state must prove it beyond a reasonable doubt. This is the highest level of proof used in courts. It means the judge must be almost completely sure the juvenile did what they are accused of.

If a juvenile is accused of a status offense, which is something that is only against the rules because of their age, like skipping school or running away, the state has an easier burden to meet. The state only needs to prove the case by clear and convincing evidence. This means the proof must show it is highly likely the juvenile did what they are accused of, but it does not require the same level of certainty as a delinquent offense case.

In short, the more serious the accusation, the higher the bar the state must clear to prove its case.