Post-disposition hearings may occur. For example, a judge's disposition order may require a minor to appear in court periodically so that the judge can monitor the minor's behavior. The severity of the offense. A serious crime is more likely to result in the filing of a petition than a less serious crime. The minor's age.
Petitions are more likely to be filed in cases involving older children.
The minor's past record. Formal charges are more likely when a minor has been previously involved with juvenile court. The strength of the evidence that the minor committed a crime. Obviously, stronger evidence leads to a greater likelihood of formal charges. The minor's gender.