About Us

People often think of the juvenile justice system as a penal system similar to that of adults. While there are similarities, the adult system focuses on public safety and punishment for criminal conduct. While public safety and accountability are certainly considerations for youth, the juvenile correctional system emphasizes treatment and rehabilitation.

Even when it is necessary to incarcerate youth, the setting is designed to be protective, not punitive, and the goal is to educate youth about discipline, values, and work ethics, thus guiding them toward becoming productive citizens. In most cases, juvenile records are sealed so that youth are given a second chance at life without the stigma of having been in trouble with the law. Some exceptions include youth who have to register as sex offenders and youth who have committed serious offenses requiring them to complete their sentences in the adult system.