North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

Should a juvenile be fingerprinted when their case is transferred to the superior court?

1. No, they should not

2. Only if they are over 18

3. Yes, they should be fingerprinted

4. Only for certain offenses

The correct answer is: Yes, they should be fingerprinted

In cases where a juvenile's case is transferred to superior court, it is appropriate for them to be fingerprinted. This practice serves several important functions within the justice system. First, fingerprinting helps establish an accurate identification of the juvenile, which is crucial for maintaining a reliable record as the case progresses through the court system. Superior court proceedings often deal with more serious offenses, and having a clear identification aids in ensuring justice is administered accurately. Moreover, fingerprinting can be necessary for future law enforcement reference, as it generates a permanent record that can aid in tracking any subsequent offenses or ensuring compliance with court requirements. It's a procedural step that aligns with the more formal nature of superior court compared to juvenile court, which usually follows less stringent identification protocols. While the age of the juvenile or specific types of offenses might seem relevant, the standard practice is to fingerprint juveniles in such cases to help facilitate a smooth judicial process.