aftercare | Definition

Doc's CJ Glossary by Adam J. McKee
Course: Juvenile Justice

Aftercare in the juvenile justice system is a reintegrative service that establishes collaborative arrangements with the community to support juveniles’ successful reentry.


Aftercare is a crucial component of the juvenile justice system, as it provides the necessary services and support to juveniles who have been placed out of their homes and are preparing for reentry into their communities. Aftercare consists of reintegrative services that are designed to help these juveniles transition back into their communities and establish the necessary collaborative arrangements with community resources to ensure their continued success.

Juveniles who have been placed out of their homes, such as in a detention center, group home, or residential treatment facility, often face significant challenges when they return to their communities. They may struggle to reintegrate into their families, schools, and neighborhoods and may face obstacles such as lack of access to resources, stigma, and social isolation.

Aftercare services are designed to address these challenges and support the successful reintegration of juveniles back into their communities. These services may include case management, counseling, educational support, vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services.

The goal of aftercare services is to establish collaborative arrangements between the juvenile, their family, and the community to ensure the delivery of these necessary services and supervision. This collaborative approach helps to ensure that the juvenile receives the support and resources they need to succeed in the community and reduces the risk of recidivism or further involvement with the juvenile justice system.

Aftercare services are typically provided by a team of professionals, including social workers, probation officers, mental health providers, and educators. These professionals work together to develop individualized plans for each juvenile based on their specific needs and challenges. They also work closely with community resources, such as schools, employers, and community organizations, to ensure that the juvenile has access to the support and resources they need to succeed.

The success of aftercare services depends on collaboration and communication between all parties involved. Juveniles, their families, and community resources must work together to establish a support system that will help the juvenile successfully reintegrate into their community. This collaborative approach helps to ensure that the juvenile has access to the resources they need to succeed and reduces the risk of recidivism or further involvement with the juvenile justice system.


[ Glossary ]

Last Modified: 04/29/2023

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