Legal Definitions - juvenile justice

Juvenile justice is a part of the law that deals with young people who are not old enough to be held responsible for criminal acts. In most states, this age is set at 18 years old. Juvenile law is mainly governed by state law, and most states have created a juvenile code.

State laws have created juvenile courts and provided methods for dealing with juvenile delinquency. These laws have been upheld by courts as an acceptable extension of state police power to ensure the safety and welfare of children. The doctrine of parens patriae authorizes the state to legislate for the protection, care, custody, and maintenance of children within its jurisdiction.

If a juvenile court waives or relinquishes its jurisdiction, juveniles can be transferred into adult court.

At the federal level, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (JJDP) is the main federal statute relating to juvenile justice. JJDP assists states and local communities in providing community-based services to juveniles in danger of becoming delinquent, helps to train individuals in occupations providing such services, and provides technical assistance in the field.

For example, if a 16-year-old is caught stealing, they may be sent to juvenile court instead of adult court. The state will provide services to help the juvenile stay out of trouble and become a productive member of society. However, if the juvenile commits a serious crime, such as murder, the juvenile court may waive its jurisdiction and send the juvenile to adult court.