Rule 144.Findings.
Current through July 1, 2026 · Last verified September 11, 2026
Full Text of Rule 144
Amendment History
The Hawaiʻi State Judiciary’s compiled text of this rule carries no amendment order for this rule. For the adopting orders and any later amendments, see the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary’s rules page.
Plain-English Summary
At the conclusion of the adjudication hearing, where the court determines that the material allegations of the petition are established, or that a lesser included offence has been proved, it may enter an order granting the prayer of the petition.
The lesser included offence provision matters. The court is not confined to the charge as pleaded, and Rule 157 makes the same point from the reporting side: the adjudication involves only the final violation charged by the police unless the judge determines a lesser or related offence was committed.
The second paragraph deals with the gap between adjudication and disposition. Where the disposition hearing is not to be held immediately and the child is in detention or shelter care, the court shall determine whether the child is released or continued in custody. The question is decided, not left standing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if the allegations are proved in a Hawaii juvenile case?
The court may enter an order granting the prayer of the petition.
Can the court find a lesser offence?
Yes. It may act where it determines that a lesser included offence has been proved.
What happens to a detained child after adjudication?
Where the disposition hearing is not immediate, the court shall determine whether the child is released or continued in detention or shelter care.
Is disposition always immediate?
No. The rule contemplates a disposition hearing held later, in which case Rule 149 governs the social study.
Can the petition be dismissed instead?
Yes. Rule 148 lets the court dismiss a petition at any time where that is in the interest of justice and the welfare of the child.