A teenage driver has been warned to inform a children's court if he is guilty of causing the death of his passenger in Ballan in September.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The 17-year-old boy faces eight charges over a car crash on the Western Freeway that killed Jacqueline Vodden, 16.
The teenager, who The Courier cannot name for legal reasons, appeared at a children's court by video link on Thursday.
His lawyer told the court the case had not been resolved but there had been substantial discussions between defence and prosecution.
"I am confident if the matter does not resolve, it will be proceeding to a committal on the next occasion," the lawyer said.
The magistrate noted the negotiations were incomplete and told the teenager to indicate his intentions relating to the charges.
"You will be required to inform the court if you will be pleading guilty or not guilty to the charges," the magistrate said.
The boy, who remains in custody, has not seen CCTV footage provided to the court on December 18.
The boy's charges over the September 19 fatal collision include culpable driving causing death, dangerous driving causing death, failing to render assistance after a car accident and car theft.
He will return to court on February 8 for a further committal mention.
Family members supported the teenager in court for Thursday's hearing.
