Suspension of Proceedings and Commitment of Minors
- Before sentencing a juvenile offender, the court must suspend further proceedings.
- The court may commit the minor to an institution specified under the law until the minor reaches majority or for a shorter period deemed appropriate.
- Commitment is subject to conditions outlined in section seven of the referenced Act.
Alternative to Institutional Commitment: Probation
- The court may permit the minor to remain outside an institution under probation.
- Probation includes visitation and supervision by a probation officer assigned by the court.
- The probation officer is tasked with periodically reporting on the minor’s case to the court.
Consideration of Religious Affiliation
- Prior to committing a minor to a private institution, the court must consider the religion of the minor and his parents or next of kin.
- The court should avoid committing the minor to a private institution that is not under the control or supervision of the minor’s or family’s religious sect or denomination.
Right to Appeal Commitment Orders
- The law grants minors the right to appeal orders of commitment issued under the section.
- Appeals must be made in the same manner as appeals in criminal cases.
- The appeal process follows the procedures outlined in General Orders Numbered Fifty-eight (the amended Code of Criminal Procedure).
Effectivity
- The Act took effect immediately upon approval on November 21, 1930.