NCJ Number
16664
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 17 Issue: 2 Dated: (1973) Pages: 178-184
Date Published
1973
Length
7 pages
Annotation
A DESCRIPTION OF PROVISIONS AND APPLICATIONS OF THE 1965 JUVENILE LAW WHICH ESTABLISHES JURISDICTION OF THE JUVENILE COURTS OVER CHILDREN, PARENTS, AND CIVIL MATTERS AFFECTING THE BASIC RIGHTS OF THE CHILD.
Abstract
THE PRIMARY FOCUS OF THE 1965 CODE IS ON THE CONCEPT OF PROTECTION OF YOUTH, ESPECIALLY WITHIN THE FAMILY SITUATION. THE JUVENILE COURT IN BELGIUM IS A SPECIAL SECTION ON THE DISTRICT COURT, AND HAS AN ORGANIZATION AND STATUTES OF ITS OWN WHICH RADICALLY DIFFER FROM ORDINARY ADULT COURTS. MEASURES AFFORDED BY THE LAW TO PROTECT CHILDREN FROM PARENTS UNABLE OR UNWILLING TO FULFILL THEIR OBLIGATIONS INCLUDE SUPERVISING THE USE OF FAMILY ALLOWANCES, EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE, AND TAKING AWAY THE RIGHTS OF THE PARENTS. MEASURES CONCERNING MINORS, SUCH AS REPRIMANDS, SUPERVISION BY A YOUTH WORKER, PLACEMENT AWAY FROM HOME OR IN A STATE INSTITUTION, BEING MADE A STATE WARD, OR PLACEMENT IN A MENTAL INSTITUTION ARE DESCRIBED. THE USE OF SOCIAL SERVICES TEAMS TO MAKE SOCIAL INQUIRIES AND TO PROVIDE TREATMENT IS ALSO DISCUSSED. LIMITATIONS ON THE SUCCESS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 1965 LAW ARE REVIEWED.