NCJ Number
249719
Date Published
September 2010
Length
4 pages
Publication Series
Annotation
Based on a literature review, this paper discusses the features of juvenile reentry courts, their theoretical foundation, and the status of the evaluation research on these courts.
Abstract
The broad purpose of juvenile reentry courts is to guide and monitor juveniles in their transition from out-of-home, residential placement back into responsible community living. The activities of such courts include reviewing offenders' reentry progress and problems; ordering offenders to participate in various treatment and reintegration programs; using drug and alcohol testing and other checks to monitor compliance with court requirements; applying graduated sanctions for noncompliance with requirements; and providing incentive rewards for sustained positive behaviors. There are two types of reentry courts. A "case-defined" reentry court involves reappearing before the sentencing judge, who monitors the progress of reentry activities through regular court appearances during the reentry period. Another type of reentry court is a "stand-alone" court, which maintains an exclusive docket of reentry cases. In both types of reentry courts, the judge partners with correctional administrators overseeing the case. Because reentry courts are relatively new, little evaluation research has been conducted. Currently, nine pilot sites located in separate States are being evaluated under a U.S. Justice Department grant initiative. One of the sites (West Virginia) is a juvenile reentry court. 8 references
Date Published: September 1, 2010