North Dakota Century Code Title 27. Judicial Branch of Government § 27-20.4-11. Informal adjustment

1. Before a petition is filed, the director of juvenile court, or other officer of the court designated by the court, subject to direction of the court may give counsel and advice to the parties and impose conditions for the conduct and control of the child in lieu of further proceedings with a view to an informal adjustment if it appears:

2. A child referred to the court may be considered for informal adjustment if any of the following criteria are met:

3. Reasonable written notice of the informal adjustment is given by the court to the victim if one is identified on the referral.

4. Upon an admission to the referred offense, the director of juvenile court or designee will conduct a preliminary risk and needs assessment and the results must be made available to the child and family. The results of the risk and needs assessment are used to inform the outcome of the informal adjustment. Individuals conducting the risk and needs screening tool must receive training on the appropriate delivery and use of the tool.

5. An informal agreement may not extend beyond six months from the day the agreement was agreed upon. An extension may be granted by the court for an additional period not to exceed six months. An extension may not authorize the detention of the child if not otherwise permitted by this chapter. For a driving-related offense, the agreement may include a restriction on the child's driving privileges as allowed under section 27-20.4-19.

6. An incriminating statement made by a child to the juvenile court director or designee giving counsel, advice, or as part of the risk and need screening and assessment process, may not be used against the child over objection in any proceeding.