Youth Justice
Youth Justice
NCYL works to transform the youth justice system so that it better embodies true justice and equity for children. We advance community-based, health-centered alternatives to harmful system practices and build towards a culture in which the system treats children as children. The work we do prioritizes evidence-based solutions that are proven to decrease recidivism and meet children with empathy and care.
Center Youth
NCYL provides direct services to students impacted by the youth justice system to help improve their school’s practices to better serve them. We also work directly with youth to file litigation and mobilize youth in policy advocacy and grassroots capacity building through partnerships with community-based organizations.
Legal Advocacy & Impact Litigation
Laws & Policy
Press Coverage
Palm Beach County schools sued over their use of Baker Act to send kids to psych wards
Palm Beach Post
State reaches deal to improve education, mental services for incarcerated youths
CT Mirror
'Counseling Not Criminalization' Bill Unveiled to Boot Police From US Schools
Common Dreams
Ending Virtual-School Oppression: Black Students Disproportionately Punished for Harmless Behavior at Home During Zoom Classes
Sacramento Observer
Court ends fees, fines for youth in criminal justice system
Associated Press
Editorial: County schools must repudiate use of Baker Act
The Palm Beach Post
Related Resources
Expanded Confidentiality and Sealing Provisions for Youth Police Records
Miranda Rights - Protection Guides for Youth and Professionals
Youth Justice In California: Obstacles to a Public Health Approach
District Leadership Checklist for Supporting the Unique Needs of Students in Foster Care, Experiencing Homelessness or in the Juvenile Justice System
Ending Endless Probation
Where We Focus
Contribute Today
Help us realize our mission to Center Youth and create a world where every child thrives.