Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

True or False: A preliminary hearing is conducted if an adult is charged with a felony against a juvenile.

1. True

2. False

3. It depends on the case

4. Only if the juvenile is present during the hearing

The correct answer is: True

A preliminary hearing is a critical step in the criminal justice process, especially in felony cases. It serves to determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed with a trial. In cases where an adult is charged with a felony against a juvenile, the court assesses the evidence presented to ensure that the adult's prosecution is justified based on the alleged offense. Conducting a preliminary hearing in these situations is standard practice as it provides a forum for both the prosecution and defense to present their arguments and for a judge to evaluate the substantiality of the evidence against the accused. This process is necessary to protect the rights of both the accused and the victim, ensuring that an adult is not unjustly held without sufficient cause. The other options imply specifics that would alter the fundamental nature of the preliminary hearing. However, the primary purpose remains that when an adult faces felony charges regarding a juvenile, a preliminary hearing is indeed conducted to uphold legal protocol.