NCJ Number
244011
Date Published
May 2013
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article highlights the six policy priorities of juvenile defense.
Abstract
This article provides comprehensive new best practice standards for juvenile defense attorneys, which seek to strengthen and clarify juvenile defense practice and policy, elevate the practice of juvenile law, and improve the delivery of legal services to all indigent youth. Policy advocates are encouraged to collaborate with defenders and defense service providers to ensure early access to counsel, establish a presumption of indigence for all youth, prevent invalid waiver of counsel by juveniles, challenge disparate treatment and discrimination in the system, ensure resources and manageable caseloads for defenders, and identify and eliminate harmful conditions of confinement. Additionally, the article promotes implementation of these standards through legislation, local court rules, and training that raises awareness and knowledge of the standards.