In juvenile law, when must a juvenile be informed of their rights?

A juvenile must be informed of their rights before any questioning by law enforcement to ensure that they understand the implications of speaking to police and to protect their Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination. This aligns with the principles established in both juvenile law and court rulings, which emphasize the necessity of protecting a juvenile's legal rights due to their developmental status.

Ensuring that a juvenile is aware of their rights prior to questioning allows them to make informed choices about whether to speak with law enforcement and to understand their right to have an attorney present if they wish. This step is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the legal process and upholding the juvenile's rights throughout any legal proceedings they may face.