Juvenile Restitution: A Dynamic and Challenging Alternative

摘要

This booklet provides a brief history of restitution and then describes Wisconsin's juvenile restitution program, a pilot project in 10 court jurisdictions funded by the Federal Law Enforcement Assistance Administration in 1979. Wisconsin was a ready recipient for this grant because it had recently revised its children's code to include clear procedures allowing a juvenile to make restitution for his or her offense. Restitution not only satisfies the victim, but is an important rehabilitation tool that holds juveniles accountable for their actions. Restitution can take three forms: monetary payment, community service, or service to the victim. Following a summary of juvenile court procedures, this report identifies the various stages when restitution can be ordered. It then outlines the responsibilities of the local juvenile restitution projects who organize and monitor the restitution activity. Only those youths judged delinquent or have been found responsible for criminal acts are eligible for the program at present. The discussion of staffing and funding considerations emphasizes that a full - time staff is required and that restitution represents a bargain compared to other rehabilitation methods. The future of juvenile restitution depends on community support, governmental action, judges' support, and program evaluations. Addresses of the Wisconsin project's central and regional offices are appended.