Discuss the characteristics of the Juvenile Court

What will be an ideal response?


As early as 1920, Evelina Belden of the U.S. Children's Bureau listed the following as the essential characteristics of the juvenile court:
* Separate hearings for children's cases
* Informal or chancery procedure
* Regular probation service
* Separate detention of children
* Special court and probation records
* Provisions for mental and physical examinations

In addition to the emphasis on informality, other defining characteristics of juvenile court include a focus on the best interest of the child and confidentiality. In the United States, juvenile courts vary from one jurisdiction to another, manifesting all stages of the system's complex development. Its philosophy, structure and functions are still evolving. Rarely is the court distinct and highly specialized. In rural counties, juvenile court is largely rudimentary. Usually it is part of a court with wider jurisdiction than simply juvenile cases. In Minnesota, for example, juvenile court is a part of the probate court. Judges hold sessions for juveniles at irregular intervals or when the hearings can be held in clusters.

Criminal Justice

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