Montana's Juvenile Justice System: Punishment Versus Rehabilitation

Abstract

Montana's juvenile justice system was established with the idea of protecting juveniles in trouble with the law. Over time, new laws were created and more responsibility has been placed on the juvenile. As time continues to pass, communities are calling for harsher punishment against juvenile delinquents. While juvenile crime rates are not increasing, society feels unsafe with these offenders staying on the streets. Probation officers and courts in the state are trying to balance rehabilitation and punishment. The number of therapeutic programs that the state offers are low due to lack of funding. Juveniles need to face consequences by paying restitution, but they also need to deal with the motives behind their actions. Rehabilitation is needed to keep juveniles from recidivating.