Webinar looks at 'Diverting Youth from Justice System'

The National Center for State Courts will present the webinar “Diverting Youth from the Justice System” on Thursday, July 21, from noon to 1:30 p.m. via Zoom.

Living through a pandemic has significantly impacted young people, their families and the social structures that support them. Many of the individual and environmental protective factors that reduce the likelihood of juvenile court involvement – including school connectedness and pro-social supports – have been compromised during and because of the pandemic.  The long-term impacts for adolescents, as well as our youngest children, are yet to be seen.  

The field of juvenile justice practice and policy has made great strides in recent years to implement strategies that work to divert low-risk juveniles, effectively identify and address the criminogenic needs of young people and reduce recidivism. Courts need to prepare now to effectively serve young people who have experienced school disconnectedness, social isolation and exacerbated mental health needs. NCSC is presenting this webinar series focused on how juvenile court stakeholders can best support young people in the post-pandemic era across the justice system.

Diversion from formal court involvement increases positive outcomes for young people, their families, and communities, and the benefits are boosted with community engagement. In this webinar, speakers Tessa Upin from the Crime and Justice Institute and Rachel Bingham, director of the Office of Statewide Programs - Kentucky Administrative Office of the Courts, describe statewide efforts to divert youth from the justice system, promote equity and reduce recidivism.

To register for the program, visit www.ncsc.org and click on “webinars.”