What is the main focus of Ohio's Juvenile Court system?

The focus of Ohio's Juvenile Court system is primarily on rehabilitation and the welfare of minors. This approach is rooted in the philosophy that young offenders are capable of change and that the justice system should work towards providing guidance and support rather than simply punishing them.

Ohio law emphasizes the need for interventions that prioritize the best interests of the child, which often includes services aimed at improving their behavior, providing educational opportunities, and addressing underlying issues that may lead to delinquent behavior. The system aims to create a supportive environment that fosters positive growth and development, recognizing that many juveniles come from challenging backgrounds and may benefit more from counseling or community service than from incarceration.

In contrast, while prosecuting juvenile offenders and providing detention facilities are aspects of the system, they are not the main focus. The Juvenile Court is not designed to operate like an adult court, where punishment is predominantly emphasized. Additionally, representing parents in custody disputes falls under family law rather than juvenile justice, further distinguishing the goals and operations of the Juvenile Court.