From the small numbers of youths involved in the programs surveyed, it appears that the peer jury can handle more serious offenses and second offenders as effectively as the traditional system. The positive impact of the initial evaluation warrants more research. (LHW)

Reviews the evolution and organization of the Scottish juvenile justice system. Focuses on the question of whether its dual structure of hearings and court qualifies as a diversionary system. Argues that, in principle if not in practice, the present system is more truly diversionary than previous systems. (KH)

One approach to handling juvenile offenders is the diversion of youth away from formal contact with the juvenile justice system. A diversion program implemented in Adams County, Colorado, is described here. Objectives were to reduce court caseloads, lower recidivism rates, lessen the net of social control, and permit rigorous evaluation. (GC)

Describes a study that investigated the bases of juvenile pretrial detention decisions and the effects of detention status on subsequent court decisions in Florida. Reports that the detention decision was largely based on determinants predictive of further law violations and those suggesting judicial discrimination or arbitrariness. Concludes that…

Reviews the process by which the juvenile justice system seems to worsen the problem it intends to cure. Reports on a study which found that youth who are arrested and adjudicated subsequently become more deliquent than their peers who have committed a recent felonious act but were not caught. (KH)