In Re Juan C.

In this case we conclude that an order by the juvenile court under Welfare and Institutions Code section 782 dismissing a delinquency petition against a minor in “the interests of justice” must be reversed because the trial court failed to state its reasons in the minutes, as required by rule 1493 of the California Rules of Court.

Factual and Procedural Summary

On May 29, 1992, the Los Angeles County District Attorney filed a petition in the juvenile court alleging that Juan C., a minor, came within the provisions of section 602 by reason of his commission on May 5, 1992, of seven acts constituting felonies. On June 19, 1992, the minor admitted count 7, receiving stolen property (Pen. Code, § 496, subd. (a)) as a misdemeanor, and the juvenile court dismissed the remaining counts. Disposition of the admitted count was calendared for July 30, 1992.

On July 20, 1992, the district attorney filed a second section 602 petition against the minor, alleging a misdemeanor violation of Business and Professions Code section 25662, possession of alcohol by a minor in a public place. On July 30, 1992, the juvenile court scheduled a combined hearing on September 3 for disposition on…