Approximately what percent of youth processed through the juvenile court are currently represented by attorneys trained in juvenile defense practices?
RequiredoutcomeFY2026Q3
Tier not determined
No rule matched this measure, so no tier is guessed.
Youth are individuals who could be eligible to receive indigent defense services if they are ever involved in the juvenile court. Training refers to in-person or virtual teaching and learning activities, including planning, curriculum development, and delivery, aimed at helping individuals apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed for a task, job, or organization. In the context of this program, training refers to juvenile defense practices or client-centered defense models. The trainings focus on representing juveniles in court proceedings and in related matters such as, but not limited to: an understanding of adolescent brain development, the intersection of juvenile delinquency and advocacy for a student’s educational rights and remedies, supports in the appeals process, special consideration for sealing and expungement of juvenile records, and strategies to connect youth and their families with social work and other community-based supports. Juvenile defense practices consistent with national standards—principally The Gault Center's National Juvenile Defense Standards—emphasize zealous, client-directed advocacy; specialized training; and early, continuous representation. Key practices include protecting due process rights, applying adolescent development science to cases, utilizing holistic advocacy to address underlying needs, and actively challenging systemic deficiencies.
- Target
- No target rule stated