Fitness Hearing in the United States

Fitness Hearing in the context of Juvenile and Family Law

Definition ofFitness Hearing, published by the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges: A hearing held in juvenile court to determine the fitness of a minor for retention in juvenile court, and the minor’s amenability to juvenile court resources. Must be held before any evidence is heard on the petition; a prerequisite to transfer of a minor’s case to adult court. Also called “certification hearing,” “remand hearing,” “transfer hearing,” or “waiver hearing” depending upon local practice.