Course: Introduction / Juvenile Justice
In the context of juvenile justice, disposition refers to the final decision made by a juvenile court judge after a hearing or trial.
The juvenile disposition may include a range of measures designed to address the underlying issues that may have contributed to the juvenile’s criminal behavior.
The goal of a juvenile disposition is typically to provide rehabilitation and treatment rather than punishment. The disposition may include a variety of measures, such as probation, counseling, community service, and restitution. In more serious cases, a juvenile may be placed in a secure residential facility, such as a juvenile detention center or a group home.
The specific disposition in a juvenile case is based on various factors, including the severity of the offense, the juvenile’s age and criminal history, and the availability of appropriate treatment and rehabilitation resources. Juvenile court judges have broad discretion in making disposition decisions and may consider various factors, including probation officers’ recommendations, mental health professionals, and other experts.
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Last Modified: 03/09/2023