Unfortunately, some kids will end up in juvenile detention, or juvie, as it’s often called. Juvenile detention is a form of confinement for minors who have been accused or convicted of committing crimes. We’re going to cover some of the basics of juvie. That said, if you or a loved one are facing a juvenile criminal court case, it’s crucial to speak with a lawyer.
A lawyer can help even if someone is actually guilty of the alleged crimes. First, it’s possible that the police or court system created a transgression that will get the case thrown out. If evidence was gathered illegally, for example, a lawyer may be able to get that evidence tossed out.
So how can you find a lawyer? It’s smart to key in something like St. Petersburg juvenile defense attorney or juvenile defense lawyer in NYC to find relevant local lawyers. Now let’s look at the basics of juvenile detention.
What is the Purpose of Juvenile Detention?
Motives will vary from person to person and authority to authority. However, the primary purpose of juvenile detention is arguable to make society a safer, more prosperous place. With this in mind, juvenile detention accomplishes a few things.
First, it removes potentially dangerous people from general society. Second, the risk of a juvie sentence may discourage some kids from breaking the law. Third, many youth detention systems provide opportunities for kids to learn and advance.
How Long Will a Kid Spend in Juvie?
The length of a juvenile’s stay in detention can vary widely depending on the seriousness of the offense, the juvenile’s age, and other factors. Some juveniles may only be in detention for a few days or weeks, while others may be there for months or even years. The more serious the crime, the greater the risk of a long sentence.
Some kids will also age out of juvenile detention but may be sent to jail or prison. This typically happens if the case and crimes were very serious. Keep in mind that laws and regulations can vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
What is it Like Inside a Juvenile Detention Center?
Juvenile detention centers are required to provide safe and humane conditions of confinement for juveniles. This includes providing nutritious meals, medical care, and appropriate clothing and bedding. That said, juvie certainly isn’t a stint at a resort. Food is often pretty basic, and while many centers offer entertainment, most residents won’t enjoy as much freedom and opportunity as they would at home.
Education and Programming
Juvenile detention centers are also required to provide education and programming to help juveniles learn new skills and develop positive behaviors. This may include vocational training, counseling, substance abuse treatment, and other services. Education now could reduce the risk of further criminal activity later.
Often, kids can continue their education, such as high school or middle school, while in juvie. It may also be possible to earn or at least prepare for the General Educational Development test, otherwise known as the GED.
Do Kids Have Legal Rights?
Absolutely! In fact, juveniles have the same legal rights as adults, including the right to an attorney, the right to remain silent, and the right to a fair trial.
Are Kids Provided with Mental Health Services?
Many juveniles in detention have mental health issues that require treatment. Detention centers are often required to provide appropriate mental health services to children in their care.
Rehabilitation is Often the End Goal
The goal of juvenile detention is not simply to punish juveniles for their offenses, but also to help them develop the skills and behaviors they need to avoid future criminal activity. Rehabilitation programs are an important part of this process.