§ 9-27-329 - Disposition hearing. - Arkansas Statutes

9-27-329. Disposition hearing.

(a) If the circuit court finds that the petition has been substantiated by the proof at the adjudication hearing, a disposition hearing shall be held for the court to enter orders consistent with the disposition alternatives.

(b) When a juvenile is held in detention after an adjudication hearing for delinquency pending a disposition hearing, the disposition hearing shall be held no more than fourteen (14) days following the adjudication hearing.

(c) In dependency-neglect proceedings, the disposition hearing may be held immediately following or concurrent with the adjudication hearing but in any event shall be held no more than fourteen (14) days following the adjudication hearing.

(d) In considering the disposition alternatives, the court shall give preference to the least restrictive disposition consistent with the best interests and welfare of the juvenile and the public.

(e) In dependency-neglect cases, a written disposition order shall be filed by the court, or by a party or party's attorney as designated by the court, within thirty (30) days of the date of the hearing or prior to the next hearing, whichever is sooner.

(f) At the disposition hearing, the court may admit into evidence any victim impact statements and studies or reports that have been ordered, even though they are not admissible at the adjudication hearing.