A juvenile found to have committed a crime may be unconditionally discharged or may __________________.

In the context of juvenile justice, when a juvenile is found to have committed a crime, there are several options available to the court regarding their disposition. The possibility of unconditional discharge indicates that the juvenile may not face any further consequences in relation to the crime if deemed appropriate.

The options provided—payment of fines or restitution, release to a parent, legal guardian, or relative, and release to the custody of the Maine Department of Health and Human Services—represent viable alternatives the court can order in addition to unconditional discharge.

Ordering payment of fines or restitution is a common consequence for juveniles found guilty of offenses, serving both as a form of accountability for their actions and a means to compensate victims.

Release to a parent, legal guardian, or relative often serves the best interest of the juvenile, ensuring they remain in a supportive environment while still being held accountable for their actions.

Alternatively, releasing a juvenile to the custody of the Department of Health and Human Services may be appropriate in cases where the juvenile requires more structured oversight, support services, or rehabilitation.

Therefore, considering all of these options collectively provides a comprehensive view of the possible outcomes for a juvenile who has committed a crime, resulting in the conclusion that all of the aforementioned actions can indeed be valid responses