Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

What court will hear a case if a 13-year-old is charged with armed robbery?

1. Adult Court

2. Family Court

3. Juvenile Domestic Relations Court

4. Circuit Court

The correct answer is: Juvenile Domestic Relations Court

The correct answer is Juvenile Domestic Relations Court because this court is specifically designed to handle cases involving minors, including those charged with criminal offenses like armed robbery. The juvenile justice system operates under the principle that children and adolescents have different developmental needs and should be treated differently than adults in matters of law. In this court, the focus is typically on rehabilitation rather than punishment, reflecting the understanding that young offenders can benefit from guidance and services tailored to their age and circumstances. The Juvenile Domestic Relations Court processes cases concerning children under 18 years old, ensuring that appropriate legal standards are applied that align with the welfare of the child. While other courts, such as Adult Court or Circuit Court, may handle more serious criminal cases, the unique provisions and rehabilitative approach of the Juvenile Domestic Relations Court make it the appropriate venue for juvenile offenses like armed robbery. Family Court, on the other hand, typically handles matters related to family law such as custody and divorce, rather than criminal offenses.