Study of crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system.
Juvenile justice refers to the legal system’s approach to dealing with young people (usually under 18) who break the law.
Young people are treated differently from adults because they are still developing and can be more easily rehabilitated.
These courts focus on helping youth learn from mistakes instead of harsh punishment. They may offer counseling, education, or community service.
Many juvenile systems use restorative justice, which brings together offenders, victims, and community to repair harm.
A teenager caught shoplifting may attend a diversion program instead of jail.
Juvenile courts may involve families in counseling sessions.
Juvenile justice aims to rehabilitate young offenders, not just punish them.