When minors commit crimes, it can be tempting to let them off with a warning or allow the parents to decide on a punishment. However, especially if the offense was serious or harmed others, even those under the age of 18 will face legal repercussions. If your child is facing criminal charges, it is important that you are apprised of all legal rights and options, including the chance that they will spend time in a juvenile detention center. For more information and to obtain skilled legal representation, reach out to an experienced Bergen County juvenile offense attorney today.
A juvenile detention center is a facility that houses young individuals under the age of 18 who have been accused or convicted of a criminal offense. These centers, commonly referred to as “juvie,” are designed to provide minors with a secure location where they can be held while their trial is in progress or as part of their sentencing.
When an individual under the age of 18 commits a crime, it is important that they understand the gravity of their offense and are penalized for their actions. However, it could be unfair or even dangerous to send them to a full-fledged jail or prison with adult offenders.
Juvenile detention centers help protect communities by placing offenders in custody, protect the offender from being forced into a regular prison, and offer rehabilitative services to offenders to ensure they do not continue down the path they are on.
In New Jersey, juvenile detention centers are managed by the Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC). The JJC operates three secure juvenile facilities and ten residential community homes. Secure facilities are full care and offer a variety of services on-site including education, counseling, vocational programming, medical services, religious opportunities, physical education, drug and alcohol treatment, and more. Juveniles within these facilities spend their time working toward their GED, college credits, or vocational training and prepare to be reintegrated into society upon their release.
Residential community homes offer places for specific offenders to live. There may be some houses dedicated to substance abuse, sex offenders, those with emotional disorders, or more. These homes offer more freedom than the secure facilities and generally house offenders of less severe crimes or those nearing the end of their sentence. Residential community homes offer many of the same services as secure facilities including education, counseling, and rehabilitation to prepare for release back into society. Residents also participate in community service and work with professionals to create a plan to re-enter society.
If you have questions or concerns regarding juvenile detention centers, reach out to a skilled criminal defense attorney today.
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