NCJ Number
202928
Journal
Issues of Democracy: The Changing Face of U.S. Courts Volume: 8 Issue: 1 Dated: May 2003 Pages: 20-25
Date Published
May 2003
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article presents a brief overview of the past, present, and future direction of the juvenile justice court system in the United States.
Abstract
Throughout history, societies have struggled to find effective ways to deal with juvenile crime, as well as problems of child abuse and neglect. However, in the 19th century, the United States began to bring about changes in the ways in which these problems were addressed. Child labor laws were enacted by various States to protect children. Yet, there was still no separate or unique juvenile court system in the United States. Children accused of criminal behavior were charged and judged as adults. Early juvenile justice reformers believed that society’s role was not only to determine whether a child was guilty or innocent, but “what he/she is, how has he/she become what he/she is, and what needed to be done to prevent he/she from continuing this deviant behavior." In 1899, the State of Illinois established the first juvenile court system which served as a nationwide model. Still today, the United States does not have a unique and comprehensive juvenile justice system, but at least 52 separate and distinct systems. Since its inception, the juvenile court system has changed dramatically. Now, the right to notice of charges, the right to counsel, the right to confront and cross-examine witnesses, the privilege against self-incrimination, the right to a transcript, and the right to appellate review are extended to juveniles, not just adults. In the 1970's and 1980's, attention was focused on the effectiveness of State juvenile justice systems in the treatment and rehabilitation of juveniles, as well as a growing awareness of the dangers in treating violent juvenile offenders in the same programs and facilities as victims or status offenders. Reforms occurred including the segregation of defendants in delinquency proceedings from children involved in other court proceedings and specialized programs offering judges a menu of options for the placement of children. During the 1990's, some States developed crime prevention strategies. Since 1987, the number of juveniles detained and committed to State institutions has risen dramatically. Today, the system is plagued by overcrowding and understaffing in the courts, treatment programs, and detention facilities. Progressing into the 21st century, the juvenile justice is seen at a crossroads. To be effective, the system will require that sufficient resources be devoted to fulfill its mission. Juvenile courts must have appropriate power and authority, sufficient trained personnel, and adequate facilities to meet their obligations and responsibilities.