Comparison of Adult and Juvenile Terms in expungements

Comparison of Adult and Juvenile Terms in expungements

The table below compares commonly understood criminal terms to terms specific to juvenile delinquency matters. Juvenile delinquency matters should not be considered the same as adult criminal actions. The process for expunging juvenile records, however, is the same as that for expunging adult criminal matters. In fact, if you have both adult and juvenile records that you wish to expunge, you should include all matters in your expungement petition.

Criminal Term Juvenile Term

Arrest Taking juvenile into custody

Conviction Adjudication of delinquency

Sentence Disposition

Indictment No equivalent - A juvenile is charged with an offense without an indictment process

Jail, prison or incarceration Secure facility, youth house or detention center or juvenile justice institution (specific names may vary)

Pretrial Intervention Program (PTI) Diversion - Juvenile Conference Committee or an Intake Services Conference

Glossary of Terms

Deferred Disposition: In a deferred disposition, the court adjudicates the juvenile delinquent and sets forth conditions for the juvenile to meet. If the juvenile meets the terms of those conditions, then the disposition will be dismissed pursuant to the court's order.

Diversion: A diversion is the process of removing minor juvenile cases from the full judicial process on the condition that the accused participates successfully in a rehabilitative process, such as a Juvenile Conference Committee or an Intake Services Conference. If conditions entered into by these diversions are met, then it results in a dismissal of the case, and no appearance before a judge is required.

Indictable Offense: A criminal offense that includes first, second, third and fourth degree crimes. An indictable offense does not include disorderly persons, petty disorderly persons or municipal ordinance violations.

Source https://njcourts.gov/forms/10557_exp

Try to Get a Lawyer

The court system can be confusing, and it is a good idea to get a lawyer if you can.

Keep Copies of All Papers

Make and keep for yourself copies of all completed forms and any canceled checks, money orders, sales receipts, bills, contract estimates, letters, leases, photographs and other important documents that relate to your case.

NOTE: Remember to also keep a copy of your final expungement order should your petition be granted. Once granted, obtaining a copy will require a judge’s order.