Florida: Very large circle of people hold hands indoors

As youths face hefty court fines, some states find new ways for them to pay for their crimes

Courts have long mandated fees, aiming to hold youth accountable, deter them from future crime and often to cover the justice system’s administrative and other costs. Yet, advocates of juvenile justice reform contend that those conventional methods of demanding accountability from young offenders are counterproductive, neither serving the interests of youth nor their victims

Kids-for-Cash: Headshot of older female teen with blonde hair wearing dark-framed glasses in front of blurred sign saying "Kids for Cash".

Kids-for-cash judges ordered to pay more than $200M

Two former Pennsylvania judges who orchestrated a scheme to send children to for-profit jails in exchange for kickbacks were ordered to pay more than $200 million to hundreds of people they victimized in one of the worst judicial scandals in U.S. history.

prize: 3 glass plaques with writing on them.

Three Win Leadership Prize From Juvenile Law Center

The Juvenile Law Center awards its Leadership Prize to those who do exceptional work in creating change for youth in the child welfare and justice systems, whether through a large contribution, a lifetime of advocating for change, or any other outstanding efforts.

Navigating the Path to a Successful Career: The Vitality of Vital Records

In today’s world, having access to your vital records (birth certificate, Social Security card, state ID card) is, in fact, vital. The consequences system-involved youth experience by not having these essential records include potential housing instability, the inability to pursue certain educational opportunities and financial aid, and lack of access to public benefits. Not having identification can also be a barrier to employment. This is the situation Bruce Morgan, Juvenile Law Center’s youth advocate alum, faced.