Why Is This Important?
The youth justice system is intended to ensure community, youth and victim safety. It must respond appropriately to young offenders, providing guidance, supervision, and accountability while preserving individual rights. Many young people entering the justice system have faced challenges that impede success in school and social participation, including the lack of a supportive home environment, having unmet physical and/or mental health needs, and trauma from exposure to family and/or community violence. The justice system provide interventions that keep communities safe, while providing adequate treatment and support to promote youth resiliency, self-reliance, and responsible life choices.