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Department of Juvenile Services

Probation and Aftercare Services

Probation

When a youth is found delinquent by the Maryland juvenile court, the judge may place them on probation, which is the most common outcome in juvenile court. Youth on probation work with a case management specialist (CMS) who supervises their progress.

Youth on probation must follow:

  • Standard supervision requirements, which include:
    • Meeting in-person with a probation agent regularly
    • Obeying laws and appearing at all court hearings
    • Remaining in state and getting permission for any change of address
    • Paying supervision fees and restitution
    • Following treatment plan
  • Any additional conditions ordered by the court

Treatment service plan

Community supervision staff provide services to youth who are on court-ordered probation or aftercare, including youth receiving treatment while living at home or in other community placements.

Each youth on probation receives a Treatment Service Plan (TSP). This plan outlines the services and supports the youth and family will receive.

The plan is guided by a risk and needs assessment, which helps staff:

  • Determine the appropriate level of supervision
  • Identify the youth’s needs and strengths
  • Set goals for the youth and family

Youth, parents or guardians, and service providers are involved in creating the plan whenever possible.

Learn more about Treatment Service Plans

Aftercare supervision

Aftercare supervision is similar to probation supervision in that the CMS performs many of the same supervisory tasks and relies on the decision-making tool (the MCASP Risk & Needs Assessment). Aftercare services are provided for youth who have been committed to or released from the custody of DJS for placement outside the home, or for the receipt of in-home services in some jurisdictions. A CMS is assigned to the case upon commitment. 

Aftercare planning is initiated at the time that a judge makes a decision (disposition) of commitment, before the youth is placed in a residential program. Plans are:

  • Guided by risk and needs assessments,
  • Updated according to youth’s progress in residential care, and
  • Include identification and monitoring of services needed upon release. 

Building on services provided in the residential placement, the CMS is also responsible for managing the re-entry process so youth and family are linked to services and possible continuation of treatment in the community.

Youth’s adjustment and compliance with any court directives are monitored. Additionally, many programs are available to assist youth returning to the community, including:

  • Independent living programs
  • Transitional educational services
  • Employment programs (e.g., job readiness training, career exploration, and vocational training) 

GPS may also be ordered by the court, or as a graduated response by a case manager for high-risk cases, and for youth on home passes from secure placement.