How soon must an adjudication hearing be held after a petition alleging a minor is abused is filed?

An adjudication hearing must be held within 90 days after a petition alleging a minor is abused is filed to ensure timely legal proceedings and safeguard the welfare of the child involved. This timeframe is established to strike a balance between giving the legal system adequate time to prepare while also recognizing the urgent nature of abuse allegations. Timeliness in such cases is critical, as delays can lead to further risk or trauma for the minor. Making prompt decisions helps facilitate proper intervention and support services that can address the child’s needs effectively while also ensuring that legal rights are respected and preserved throughout the process.