Relevant terms, including child, youth felony, misdemeanor, and delinquent are defined, and suggestions are given on when to conduct a stop and threshold inquiry. The discussion of child interrogation emphasizes informing questioned youth of their rights. Warrantless searches are addressed, including the situations in which such searches are permissible, such as search incident to a stop, consent, plain view, exigent circumstances, and hot pursuit. Probable cause is defined, along with a discussion of factors relevant to determining probable cause, such as information supplied by an informant or by victims and witnesses. Situations when arrest is permissible or mandated are explored, and factors that should be considered are listed, including the child's age and maturity, the seriousness of the alleged offense, and the role of the child in the alleged offense. Procedures to be followed after the arrest are listed: ascertain the child's name and age, pat down the child for weapons, and handcuff the child when necessary. Factors that should be considered in deciding whether to release or detain the chil are discussed, and protective custody is examined as an alternative to arrest. Ways to identify abused or neglected children are suggested.