Bill > A10674

This bill requires judges to order a probation investigation and a diagnostic assessment for any juvenile delinquent who the court reasonably finds has a demonstrable need for help with a handicapping condition, before a dispositional hearing. A diagnostic assessment is a comprehensive evaluation, including psychological tests and psychiatric interviews, to understand a juvenile's mental capacity, emotional stability, and any mental disabilities, as well as situational factors contributing to their behavior. The bill also specifies that this diagnostic assessment should be completed by an interdisciplinary team, which may include professionals like psychologists, social workers, special educators, physicians, and legal counsel. Furthermore, it expands the options for placing a juvenile with a mental illness or developmental disability, allowing judges to refer custody to various state agencies, such as the office of children and family services, local social services commissioners, or commissioners of mental health or developmental disabilities, for placement into existing programs. This change aims to ensure that juveniles with specific needs receive appropriate evaluations and placements.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A10674