How are juveniles held accountable for their wrongdoings?

In California, juveniles are held accountable for their wrongdoings through the juvenile court system. Juveniles who violate the law in California can face a variety of punishments, such as probation, fines, counseling, community service, or even incarceration in a juvenile facility. In California, juvenile law is governed by the Welfare and Institutions Code. This code enables the juvenile court system to focus on the best interests of the child, while also holding them accountable for their wrongdoings. When a juvenile is arrested, the first step is for their case to be heard in the juvenile court. At this hearing, the court will decide whether it is the best interests of the juvenile and society to keep the case in the juvenile court, or to transfer the case to the adult criminal court. If the case is kept in the juvenile court, the judge will then consider various factors to determine the appropriate punishment. If the court determines that the juvenile has committed a serious crime, then a sentence of probation may be imposed. This might include attending counseling and therapy sessions and completing community service, among other things. For less serious offenses, the juvenile may be given a warning or fined. In some instances, the juvenile may be committed to a juvenile facility if their actions pose a threat to the public. Ultimately, the goal of the juvenile court system is to rehabilitate the juvenile and return them back into the community as productive, law-abiding citizens. Through this system, juveniles are held accountable for their wrongdoings and given an opportunity to learn from their mistakes.

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How are juveniles held accountable for their wrongdoings?

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