Juvenile Defender Disposition Practice Tool

Disposition determines the scope of the juvenile court system’s continued involvement in a child’s life and any infringements upon their liberty. While client-directed advocacy is important at all stages, it is critical at disposition, especially in cases when the client is facing a serious charge, has a significant court history, or is viewed as “high needs.” Children must fulfill the conditions ordered at disposition and the juvenile defender must ensure the child’s disposition plan is wellconsidered and clearly and positively presented to the court. Effective disposition advocacy will improve the likelihood that the disposition outcome will lead to youth success.