Initiatives

Family Court Services evaluates programs and services to ensure they meet the needs of juveniles, families, and the community.  The following initiatives are employed within Family Court Services.

Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative
This initiative seeks to ensure the proper use of secure detention, encouraging use of the least restrictive pre-adjudication detainment option available while still ensuring community safety. 

Racial & Ethnic Disparities / Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
Missouri Efforts to Decrease DMC 
The Family Court employs a Racial & Ethnic Disparities Program Manager, who leads the Court's efforts to ensure equitable treatment for all youth who come into contact with the Jackson County Court.  The manager also heads the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Committee, which seeks to build and foster a diverse and welcoming work environment for all employees.
 
Restorative Justice
This theory of justice emphasizes repairing the harm caused or revealed by criminal behavior - ideally through cooperative processes that include all stakeholders.  Restitution, community services, victim empathy programming, and Victim Impact Panels are some of the ways the Court practices restorative justice.
 

American Correctional Association (ACA) Accreditation
The ACA sets national standards for correctional agencies and facilities, and accreditation serves as verification of meeting those standards.  Field Services and Secure Detention are both accredited by the ACA.