N.Y. Fam. Ct. Act § 301.1

§ 301.1. Purpose. The purpose of this article is to establish\nprocedures in accordance with due process of law (a) to determine\nwhether a person is a juvenile delinquent and (b) to issue an\nappropriate order of disposition for any person who is adjudged a\njuvenile delinquent. In any proceeding under this article, the court\nshall consider the needs and best interests of the respondent as well as\nthe need for protection of the community.\n