In The Outsiders, why was the court hearing important and what were its decisions?

The court hearing at the end of The Outsiders is important because it resolves the events of the fight and acts legally to absolve Ponyboy. The purpose of the hearing, obviously, was to determine if Ponyboy is guilty of a crime and if he and his brothers can remain together. Because the testimony reveals he acted in self-defense and because of his prior traumatic experiences like the fire and Johnny’s death, Ponyboy is acquitted of the charges and allowed to remain in his brothers’ custody. This is vitally important in the novel, because it is made clear that Ponyboy is the Greaser with the brightest future, and that, while not perfect, living with his brothers helps him and shapes him. The court case gives him a second chance, the opportunity to ensure he doesn’t put himself in a similar situation again and to return to his normal life.

The court hearing that takes place towards the end of the novel is important to determine whether or not Ponyboy is in any way responsible for the death of Bob Sheldon, as well as if the Curtis brothers will remain together or be sent to different foster homes. During the court hearing, the Socs tell the truth by saying that Johnny acted in self-defense when he stabbed Bob. The judge also asks Darry and Sodapop whether they were friends with Dally. Darry responds by saying that Dally was indeed their close friend. When Ponyboy testifies, the judge only asks him questions regarding his living situation. The judge asks Ponyboy if he liked living with Darry and whether he enjoyed going to school. The doctor must have informed the judge that Ponyboy was mentally ill following the multiple traumatic experiences. Fortunately, Ponyboy is acquitted, and the Curtis brothers get to stay together.

What were the court's possible decisions in The Outsiders?

The possible outcomes in court are that Darry is declared an unfit guardian and Pony is put in a foster home, a fine, or Pony will go to jail.

Pony can’t believe that Randy does not seem to care about Bob being dead and Pony being charged.

"I wouldn't mind getting fined," Randy said, "but I feel lousy about the old man. And it's the first time I've felt anything in a long time." (ch 11, p. 165)

Pony tells Randy he is worried because he is afraid that his brother Darry might be declared unfit and Pony will be moved to a foster home.  Randy feels sorry for him.  Pony gets a little mixed up, saying Johnny did not die in the hospital.

Before the hearing the doctor has a long talk with the judge. He was explaining Pony’s situation.  At the trial, the judge only asks him if he likes living with Darry, if he likes school, and other nonthreatening questions and then dismisses the case.

The judge and others seem to realize that Pony has been through enough.  He is a little depressed and mixed up, and they want him to get on with his life.