During the past two decades, juvenile justice systems in numerous states have made progress towards transformational change. Advocates, grassroots activists, and attorneys have worked alongside young people involved with the system, as well as their families, to dismantle the current system of youth incarceration and to establish in its place responses to adolescent behavior that respect children and families and build on their strengths. In addition to improving the lives of children and families impacted by the justice system, these reforms have saved taxpayer money without compromising public safety.
The strategies shared throughout this document are based on public documents as well as hours of conversations with youth, family members, and other advocates who generously gave their time to explain what they thought made their campaigns successful, as well as what they would do differently knowing what they do now.
