A minor's criminal case, unlike an adult's criminal case, will be heard behind closed doors. There will therefore be in principle no public present. In some special situations, the judge, however, will grant permission for other interested parties to be present during the court hearing.

During the court hearing, all the parties concerned will be heard. The minor will be questioned by the judge, the prosecutor will inform the judge about the point of view of the Prosecutor's Office ans what kind of sentence would be appropriate in this situation and the attorney will argue on behalf of the child. Often, the Child Care and Protection Board and the parents or guardian of the child are also allowed to express their views to the judge. The child always has the last word at the court hearing.

Usually the judge reaches a verdict immediately after the hearing. If the case is heard by three judges, the verdict will be made public within fourteen days.