March 1, 2012

Juvenile Justice Guidebook for Legislators

The National Conference of State Legislatures and the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation have jointly released a primer for legislators interested in cutting-edge juvenile justice issues. It addresses such timely topics as (1) adolescent development and competency, (2) delinquency prevention and intervention, (4) the mental health needs of juvenile offenders, (5) the overrepresentation of minorities in the juvenile justice system, (6) reentry programs, and (7) cost-benefit analyses.

In addition to identifying key issues legislatures across the nation are grappling with, the publication highlights significant research, program approaches, and model statutory language.