NCJ Number
241902
Date Published
October 2012
Length
28 pages
Annotation
Written for families with a child being processed in Pennsylvania's juvenile justice system, this guide assists these families in understanding the State's juvenile justice system, so the family members can be better prepared to work closely with juvenile justice staff in promoting positive outcomes for their children.
Abstract
This guide is intended as a reference source for families that can answer questions they may have about how Pennsylvania's juvenile justice system operates as a youth moves through various stages from time of arrest until he/she is released from the juvenile court's supervision. The guide first explains how the juvenile justice system differs from the adult criminal justice system so as to focus on a youth's age-related needs and treatment that addresses the problem behavior that brought the youth into contact with the juvenile justice system. The processing of juveniles in Pennsylvania reflects a 1995 statement by the State legislature that bases the juvenile justice system on the principles of "balanced and restorative justice." Under such a system, the goals are community protection, the youth's accountability for the harm done by delinquent acts, and competency development that involves positive change in attitudes and behaviors. A flow chart depicts the various decision points and stages in the process of juveniles, followed by descriptions of the roles of various juvenile justice professionals who serve in the juvenile justice system. A statement of the legal obligations of the youth's attorney is also provided in the guide. One section of the guide suggests ways in which parents can advocate for their child by their compliance with the juvenile justice system's requirements and cooperation in efforts to hold the youth accountable and provide treatment services. Specific areas of juvenile justice processing are explained in detail. 12 references, a glossary, and a listing of services and supports for families