What are the juvenile justice system’s response to truancy and running away?

In California, the juvenile justice system takes a different approach to dealing with minor crimes or offenses committed by juveniles than it does with adults. When a juvenile commits a crime such as truancy (skipping school) or running away, the response of the justice system usually is to divert the child away from the court system and toward community-based programs and services. Truancy is often handled by the school district. The district may involve county attorneys to help them find the best solution for the safety and well-being of the student. They may refer the student to counseling or other services, or they may issue a citation. Similarly, if a juvenile runs away from home, their case may be handled by the county’s youth services department instead of the court system. California also has specific legislation in place that is meant to address delinquency through the use of restorative justice practices. These practices are based on restoring relationships between the juvenile and their family and the community, rather than punishing the child with time in detention centers. When a juvenile commits a crime in California, the juvenile justice system aims to divert them away from the court system and instead focus on providing resources, services, and programs that are designed to help the juvenile improve their behavior and make better decisions in the future. This is intended to reduce the likelihood of the juvenile reoffending in the future, and create better outcomes for the juvenile and the community.

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What are the juvenile justice system’s response to truancy and running away?

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