The Juvenile Court Clinics provide a range of evaluations, consultation and follow-up services to children and families referred by the Juvenile Court. Typically, children and families are involved in one of four types of cases: Delinquency, Child Requiring Assistance, Mental Health or Substance Use Emergency petitions, or Care and Protection matters.

These vulnerable children and families demonstrate remarkable resilience as they navigate complex and often overwhelming challenges. The following narratives share their experiences as they engaged with the Juvenile Court Clinics. Some accounts include references to violence, neglect, self-harm, abuse, substance use, mental illness or sexual assault, and other traumatic experiences. They also reflect the dedication and specialized expertise of the Juvenile Court Clinicians who supported them. As you read, please be mindful of your own reactions and take steps to care for yourself if you experience strong emotions.  The stories that follow show that with timely care and appropriate services, positive outcomes are possible for court-involved children and families.

To protect confidentiality, MAJCC does not use real names or identifying features in case examples.