North Dakota Century Code Title 27. Judicial Branch of Government § 27-20.3-14. Adjudication

1. If the court finds from clear and convincing evidence that the child is in need of protection, the court shall proceed immediately or at a postponed hearing to make a proper disposition of the case.

2. After hearing the evidence on the petition, the court shall make and file findings as to whether the child is in need of protection. If the court finds the child is not in need of protection, the court shall dismiss the petition and order the child discharged from any restriction previously ordered in the proceeding.

3. In hearings under this section, all evidence helpful in determining the questions presented, including oral and written reports, may be received by the court and relied upon to the extent of the probative value of the evidence even though not otherwise competent in the hearing on the petition. The parties or the counsel of the parties must be afforded an opportunity to examine and controvert written reports so received and to cross-examine individuals making the reports. Sources of confidential information need not be disclosed.

4. On motion of the court or that of a party, the court may continue the hearings under this section for a reasonable period to receive reports and other evidence bearing on the disposition. In scheduling investigations and hearings the court shall give priority to proceedings in which a child has otherwise been removed from the child's home before an order of disposition has been made.