What is the initial step when taking a juvenile into custody according to the procedures outlined?

The initial step when taking a juvenile into custody is assessing the situation and determining if a law has been broken. This step is crucial as it involves evaluating the circumstances surrounding the juvenile's behavior and linking it to any potential violation of laws. Proper assessment ensures that law enforcement officers act within their legal authority and make informed decisions on how to proceed with the situation.

Understanding if a law has been violated sets the foundation for all subsequent actions, such as whether detention is warranted or if the juvenile can be released to their parents. This step is also vital to ensure the juvenile's rights are protected and appropriate protocols are followed throughout the process.

While other steps, such as contacting parents or reading rights, are important, they typically follow the initial assessment, which helps in determining the next appropriate course of action.