NCJ Number
105220
Journal
Law and Policy Volume: 8 Issue: 4 Dated: (October 1986) Pages: 437-462
Date Published
1986
Length
26 pages
Annotation
Although the data presented suggest that Florida has gotten tougher with juveniles since the mid-to-late 1970's, the statistics do not indicate that Florida imposes harsh sanctions on the majority of juveniles referred for delinquency.
Abstract
Florida's current Juvenile Justice Act is rigid on procedural matters but flexible as to dispositional alternatives. The State attorney wields enormous power in determining what charges are to be filed and what range of sanctions is available upon a finding of guilt by choosing the forum (diversionary program, juvenile court, or adult court). Analyses of the data on detention, judicial processing, commitment to the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services, transfer to adult court, and commitment to the adult correctional system indicate that Florida has gotten 'tougher' on juveniles in recent years. Much of juvenile court processing, however, reflects rehabilitation-oriented policy in both practice and legislative intent. The absolute decline in juvenile arrest rates suggests that the policies are effective. The State is not likely to embrace a 'get tough' policy, particularly regarding the percentages of dispositions committed to rehabilitation, transferred to adult court, and admitted to the adult correctional system. 5 tables, 20 notes, 5 references, and 14 statute references.