Fines & Fees
Young people and their families are routinely assessed fees, fines, and other costs in delinquency matters. These financial assessments are often ordered without an ability-to-pay analysis by the court. A young person’s inability to pay can lead to long-lasting consequences, increased recidivism, and youth and their families having to choose between paying fees or buying…
“Not once does the judge or probation officer explain how expensive it’s going to be if you plead guilty without an attorney… The probation officer that said, ‘it’s really expensive to have a lawyer,’ neglected to say ‘it’s really expensive to have a probation officer.’” – NJDC’s Legal Director, Tim Curry on children waiving the…
Access Denied found that “[n]o jurisdiction in the United States wholly fulfills the constitutional promise of justice for children.” So, no matter where you live and practice, your jurisdiction can improve. As juvenile defense advocates, we have a responsibility to identify and work to correct systemic deficiencies and to honor our clients’ dignity and well-being.…
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