By Janelle Hawes and Jerry Flores, Juvenile Justice Information Exchange, September 10, 2019

Recently a trial judge in Washington state’s King County Superior Court discussed his three years presiding in juvenile court. Roger Rogoff described this time as “the most emotionally-charged, inspiring and terrifying of my 25-year legal career,” citing the complicated and conflicting nature of the juvenile justice system as well as the tension, apprehension and nuances of decision-making in this environment.

While Rogoff repeats a common plea for more resources for juvenile justice, he also argues a powerful case for needing more expertise, support and thoughtful consideration. He states, “I will not miss the lack of tools and answers for our homeless, poverty-stricken and abused youth,” among the obstacles of the system and of working with young people. 

Some areas are trying to reform their local juvenile justice systems. Among these efforts, King County (Seattle) is opening the Children and Family Justice Center later this year, which focuses on rehabilitative and therapeutic programming with 100 fewer beds than its predecessor and continues the area’s longstanding efforts for alternatives to detention for youth. Additionally, historic efforts are underway in San Francisco as the city’s Board of Supervisors recently voted to close the city’s juvenile hall by the end of 2021. This decision still has numerous potential downfalls to survive before it is fully realized, yet the intention to stop incarcerating juveniles and alternatively develop and utilize community-based facilities and supports is noteworthy.

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