N.D. Cent. Code § 27-20.4-15: Predispositional assessment. (Effective after January 1, 2027)

1.Before the disposition hearing, the court shall direct the director or designee, to conduct a predisposition assessment and to prepare a written report for the court, unless waived by the court.

2.The predisposition assessment must consist of a risk and needs assessment together with any other appropriate screenings.

3.During the pendency of any proceeding the court may order:

a.The child to be examined at a suitable place by a physician, psychologist, or certified addiction counselor;

b.The child to be tested by appropriate forensic methods to determine whether the child has been exposed to a controlled substance or other substance considered injurious to the child's health;

c.Medical or surgical treatment of a child who is suffering from a serious physical condition or illness, or alcohol or drug abuse, which in the opinion of a licensed physician requires prompt treatment, even if the parent, guardian, or other custodian has not been given notice of a hearing, is not available, or without good cause informs the court of that person's refusal to consent to the treatment; or

d.An evidence-based risk and needs assessment, mental health screening, or trauma screening.