This collection of essays about juvenile justice policy addresses hot topics along three themes: prevention, prosecution, and corrections.

Each essay presents arguments both in favor of and opposed to various treatments, programs, and punishments, examining issues such as youth curfews, juveniles in adult courts, legal representation for juveniles, juvenile boot camps, group homes, and out-of-home placement.

In addition to covering the leading arguments in this field, the authors point out where more research needs to be done. WestEd’s Anthony Petrosino and Claire Morgan contributed a chapter on alternative schools.