Room 2: A New Look at Litigating Dennis H. and Detention Hearings

This presentation aims to provide a fresh perspective on detention law and Dennis H. hearings by setting aside received wisdom and routine practices and taking a close look at some underutilized tools and approaches that can be used to reduce the incarceration of youth. Stephen and Reuben will discuss some overlooked intricacies of detention law and novel tactics and strategies for defending youth against detention. They will cover the nature and scope of Dennis H. hearings, ways to maximize the utility of these hearings, and how these hearings can improve outcomes beyond the issue of detention. They will share their experiences of increasing the use of Dennis H. hearings in Sacramento County, the practical challenges such efforts can pose for juvenile defender offices, and ways of addressing these challenges.