NCJ Number
141794
Journal
Journal for Juvenile Justice and Detention Services Volume: 7 Issue: 2 Dated: (Fall 1992) Pages: 16-21
Date Published
1992
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article provides a descriptive analysis of law- related education (LRE) as currently used by Court Designated Workers in the Kentucky Juvenile Services program.
Abstract
LRE is an education program designed to teach youth about law, legal proceedings, and the underlying principles of American democracy. Sixteen pilot sites in a variety of juvenile correctional settings were included in the initiative. The Court Designated Worker Program is unique, in that it is a court-based program that includes participation by the program administrators. Juveniles, ages 12-17, who meet the criteria for informal processing are eligible to participate in the LRE program. LRE programs typically begin with an orientation session, a pretest of the participant's knowledge of the law, and a self-report of delinquent behavior. Parents are invited to participate in the orientation session. Subsequent sessions focus on rules, authority, responsibility, justice, juvenile justice, family law, drug education, environmental law, and community issues. A local police officer co-teaches the sessions. Resource people participate in the sessions. LRE as part of a diversion program has helped juveniles understand and develop respect for the necessity of law. In the learning process, they develop bonds with community leaders who participate in the program. Through the program, juveniles begin to feel a part of the normative system that promotes law-abiding and constructive behavior. 7 references