Experiences with the juvenile justice system in Germany – the perspectives of young people and legal professionals

• In Event: Juvenile Justice 1. Offender and Participant Prespectives

Abstract

How juvenile court judges, prosecutors, youth services in criminal proceedings, and young people experience the German juvenile justice system is an eminent question. An analysis of two recent longitudinal studies along this question reveals descriptions of cooperation and collaboration and their evaluation. In addition, respondents assess the quality of professional competencies and contributing factors such as consideration of young people's interests or sufficient time for young people in contact with the justice system and its various professionals. The analysis identifies mutual perceptions, including acceptance or rejection, as well as prejudices and conflicting interests. In doing so, it sheds light on the field of juvenile justice, especially the events surrounding the main hearing, taking into account the different actors involved.

Authors

• Diana Willems, German Youth Institute (DJI)

• Annemarie Schmoll, German Youth Institute (DJI)