The Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act

The Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (JJDPA) is a federal law that aims to improve how the justice system handles young people who commit crimes. It encourages states to treat juveniles fairly, focus on rehabilitation, and avoid placing them in harsh detention settings designed for adults. The law sets standards to prevent unnecessary detention, ensure minors’ proper treatment, and promote community-based services. Overall, it works to protect youth, reduce repeat offenses, and support positive development within the juvenile justice system.