The short answer is: it depends which end of the system you're looking at. At the "front end," ordinary probation (intake, investigation, and supervision) and preadjudication detention of juveniles are most often local responsibilities. At the "back end," secure commitment of delinquents and aftercare services tend to be state responsibilities. Most systems are hybrids of one kind or another, with some services organized at the local level, and some at the state.

Nevertheless, it is possible to divide the states into the following three basic models:

Centralized states: These 12 states are characterized by a state executive agency having across-the-board state control of delinquency services, including state-run juvenile probation services, institutional commitments, and aftercare.

Decentralized states: The organization of basic delinquency services in these 18 states is characterized, at a minimum, by local control of ordinary probation services. Often, local authorities run detention centers as well. Some also share responsibility for the provision of aftercare services with state agencies.

Combination states: The organization of basic delinquency services in these 21 states features a mix of state-controlled and locally operated delinquency services. For instance, they may have largely state-run systems--but with significant local control in the more populous, urban areas. Another possible scenario is that, although the state operates most delinquency services for youth, responsibility is divided between the executive and judicial branches.

© 2000 (original copyright); © 2006 (most recent copyright) National Center for Juvenile Justice

Citation: Griffin, Patrick and King, Melanie. 2006. "National Overviews." State Juvenile Justice Profiles. Pittsburgh, PA: National Center for Juvenile Justice. Online. Available: http://www.ncjj.org/stateprofiles/.