The minor's social history. Petitions are more likely to be filed when children have a history of problems at home or at school. The parent's or guardian's apparent ability to control the minor. The greater the lack of parental control, the more likely the intake officer is to file a petition. In addition to these official reasons, the filing decisions of many intake officers cannot help but be swayed by a number of subjective factors.
Formal proceedings are less likely when a child shows remorse for committing a crime.
The minor's manner of dress. If the young person dresses well, is neatly groomed and is polite, intake personnel are more likely to handle the case informally. Whether the minor has family or community support. The more support the young person has, the more likely the intake officer is to deal with the case informally. Whether the minor has an attorney.