| In part with continual efforts to reduce recidivism and substance abuse among juvenile substance-abusing offenders, juvenile courts have created specialized drug court dockets for juvenile offenders. Such courts have been created to assess the unique needs of juveniles and to provide needed services and treatment through an intensive monitoring program. This paper describes the implementation and treatment process of the Maricopa County Juvenile Drug Courts. By utilizing a matched group design, the effectiveness of the juvenile drug courts is evaluated. In particular, focus is given to issues on selection of youth for drug court, treatment process, retention and recidivism, and life circumstances. |
Updated 05/20/2006