What does GA House Bill 242 require the court to consider before ordering out-of-home placement for juveniles?

GA House Bill 242 emphasizes the importance of a juvenile's risk assessment as a critical factor for the court to consider before determining out-of-home placement. This requirement reflects a shift towards more individualized assessments that take into account the potential risks a juvenile may pose to themselves or others, as well as the factors that may have contributed to their behaviors.

By focusing on a risk assessment, the court can make more informed decisions that prioritize not only the safety of the community but also the specific needs and circumstances of the juvenile. This approach aligns with the principles of rehabilitation, aiming to provide interventions that are appropriate for the juvenile's situation rather than defaulting to incarceration or out-of-home placements without thorough consideration of the individual case.

While the other options—prior record, psychological evaluation, and family assessment—are important components in understanding a juvenile's background and context, the specific mandate in House Bill 242 highlights the risk assessment as a pivotal element for making placement decisions.