A 15-year-old juvenile has been brought into the system after being found violating curfew for the third time. During the initial detention hearing, it becomes apparent that the teenager has been staying out late to avoid a chaotic home environment. Further investigation reveals potential neglect by the caretaker, leading to questions about whether this case belongs in the juvenile justice system or the child welfare system.
In your discussion post, address the following:
1. Explain the differences between an adjudicatory hearing and a disposition hearing in this case. What would be determined at each stage?
2. Discuss whether this juvenile should be classified as a neglected juvenile, a dependent juvenile, or both. What evidence would support each classification?
3. Describe what the continuum of care might look like for this teenager. What services or interventions could be appropriate?
4. Finally, reflect on how the concepts of detention hearing and the initial response to a curfew violation might differ if the focus shifts from punishment to addressing the root causes of the juvenile’s behavior.
Part B
Imagine you are a juvenile court judge tasked with making placement decisions for three different juveniles. Each case requires careful consideration of the most appropriate out-of-home placement option.
Case 1: Marcus, age 16
Marcus has been adjudicated delinquent for repeated theft and drug possession. He has a history of running away from previous placements and struggles with authority. He shows potential for rehabilitation but needs structure and accountability. His probation officer suggests he needs a “wake-up call” about the consequences of his choices.
Case 2: Sierra, age 14
Sierra has experienced significant trauma and has been diagnosed with depression and PTSD. She has engaged in self-harm and has had multiple suicide attempts. While she has not committed any serious offenses, her behavior at home has become unmanageable for her family, who love her but feel overwhelmed.
Case 3: DeShawn, age 15
DeShawn has been involved in gang activity and has committed several violent offenses. He has been in the system for two years with multiple failed placements. He needs intensive, structured intervention and is not expected to return home for an extended period.
In your discussion post, address the following:
1. For each case, recommend the most appropriate placement option: group homes, boot camps, wilderness camps, residential treatment centers, or long-term facilities. Justify your choices.
2. Compare and contrast at least three of these placement options.
3. Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of your recommended placements.
4. Reflect on whether any of these cases might be better served by a less restrictive option before considering the placements listed above. What factors would influence this decision?
