What is a court order that authorizes disposition without a formal finding of delinquency called?

A court order that authorizes disposition without a formal finding of delinquency is called a consent decree. This type of order is an agreement between the parties involved, typically allowing a juvenile to avoid a delinquency finding by complying with certain terms set forth by the court. Consent decrees are often used as a way to provide relief to young offenders who show potential for rehabilitation or who have committed minor offenses.

By using a consent decree, the court can facilitate rehabilitation and intervention strategies without the long-term consequences that a formal delinquency finding might impose. This can help in preventing youths from entering the juvenile justice system more than necessary, opting instead for supportive services that address the root causes of their behavior.