08 Juvenile Justice Free Online FlashCards

What are the main aims of juvenile justice?

It responds to young people accused of violating the law, balancing youth development and rehabilitation with public safety and accountability.

What is a delinquency offense?

Conduct that would generally be a crime if committed by an adult.

What protections does the JJDPA include for young people?

It includes protections to keep youth charged with status offenses out of secure detention, separate youth from adult inmates, limit placement in adult jails, and address racial and ethnic disparities.

What is diversion in juvenile justice?

Diversion addresses behavior without formal court processing, for example through a warning, restorative conference, or community-based program.

What does pre-resolution detention mean?

Detention is temporary custody while a case is unresolved; it is not a disposition or a finding that the young person is responsible.

What does a court decide at an adjudication hearing?

At adjudication, the court determines whether the allegations are proven. If they are not, the case may be dismissed.

What proof standard applies to criminal-conduct delinquency allegations?

For delinquency proceedings involving conduct that would be criminal if committed by an adult, allegations must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

Which due-process rights did In re Gault recognize for juveniles?

In re Gault recognized rights to timely notice of allegations, legal counsel, confrontation and cross-examination of witnesses, and protection against compelled self-incrimination.

What is decided at a disposition hearing?

After adjudication, a judge generally holds a separate disposition hearing to decide the court’s response.

Name some responses a judge may order after adjudication.

Possible dispositions include probation, services, restitution, community service, placement with a relative or in a residential program, and secure confinement.

What principle should guide decisions about restricting a young person’s liberty?

Decisions should be individualized and use the least restrictive response consistent with safety; secure confinement can disrupt schooling, family ties, and development.

How can juvenile justice systems identify unequal outcomes?

The JJDPA requires participating states to examine and address racial and ethnic disparities. Tracking decisions at each stage can help identify where unequal patterns arise.