In Maryland, youth under the age of 18 charged with committing a crime are treated differently from adults. The goals of the Maryland juvenile court and the juvenile justice system are to address the causes that brought youth into that system while protecting the community.
The Maryland Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) is an executive agency whose primary task is to appropriately manage, supervise, and treat youth who are involved in the juvenile justice system in Maryland. Its mission is to transform young people’s lives, create safer communities, and forge more equitable systems through community-based partnerships that hold youth accountable while building on their strengths and support systems.
Here you will find an overview of what happens when youth become involved with Maryland's juvenile justice system and services that will be engaged to support youth and families in this situation.
Juvenile Justice and DJS
Juvenile Justice Process
An overview of events from intake to court proceedings when a youth is referred to DJS
The Role of DJS
When and how DJS gets involved with your child and what we don't do
Case Management
DJS staff that work with you and your child throughout your involvement with the justice system
Juvenile Justice Terms and Concepts
Learn about words, phrases and concepts that you may encounter when dealing with DJS.