Steven J. Carlson, the man accused of murdering 14-year-old Tina Faelz almost 30 years ago as she walked home from school, will appear in court on Nov. 15 and again on Dec. 6.

Because Carlson was 16 years old at the time of the killing, hearings associated with the case have been held at San Leandro Juvenile Justice Center.

On Nov. 15, Judge Trina Thompson will conduct a readiness hearing to determine future court dates. And on Dec. 6, she will determine, based on a behavioral study, whether Carlson is fit to stand trial as a juvenile or whether the case will be moved to adult court.

Carlson, 43, a registered sex offender with a criminal history involving drugs and battery, was arrested Aug. 7 on suspicion of killing Faelz in April 1984. He was a classmate of Tina's at Foothill High School.

Carlson's father, interviewed by Patch right after Carlson's arrest, said he doesn't believe his son committed the crime.