Rule 5:24-2. Predisposition Evaluation

(a) Before disposition of any matter but only after an adjudication of delinquency or a determination by the court that the evidence is sufficient to support such an adjudication, the court may refer the juvenile to an appropriate individual, agency or institution on such terms as may be appropriate for examination and evaluation. Before the juvenile may be referred to any institution as an in-patient for such purpose, the court must first provide for the representation of the juvenile, the juvenile's parents, guardian or custodians by counsel as the circumstances require. The court may also confer and consult with such individuals and agencies as may be appropriate to the juvenile's situation and may convene a predisposition conference to discuss and recommend a disposition. Any such reports shall be filed with the court no later than five court days before the dispositional hearing date.

(b) Any predispositional reports filed with the court shall be made available to counsel or parties appearing pro se no later than three court days before the dispositional hearing date, or as determined by the court.