justice

Briefs from the National Association of Counties assert the critical importance of juvenile justice reform to protecting communities, improving opportunity for youth, and reducing costs for counties. “Why Juvenile Justice Matters to Counties” argues that the juvenile justice system has a direct impact on counties’ investments in health, justice, and social services, and that juvenile justice systems currently cost more to counties than the benefits they bring to the community. “Why Juvenile Justice Matters to County Human Service Agencies” states that collaboration between human services and juvenile justice systems can divert youth from future involvement in the adult criminal justice system and use of public health systems. The MacArthur-supported briefs are designed to educate and assist county leaders as they undertake improvements to benefit communities and reduce costs.