The proponents of transition programs believe that these services, which include intense surveillance, increased restrictions on personal freedom, and personal accountability, are compatible with public protection and criminal justice system response goals. Current transition services are often underdeveloped and consist of mere control measures; only a small proportion of private-sector programs provide appropriate aftercare services as an integral program component. Agencies are targeting transitional services more often toward family involvement, but must consider impediments to family participation including poverty, homelessness, family disorganization, and poor health. As State juvenile justice systems shift toward restrictions on the use of secure care facilities and increased use of community-based programs, more violent and repeat youth offenders will be placed in residential programs that offer little in the way of transition services. As more emphasis is placed on aftercare, policy and program considerations to be addressed will include the need for additional research on transition services, the redeployment of substantial financial resources, the need for semi-independent and independent living accommodations for youth, and the legal avenues that can be followed on behalf of youthful offenders seeking transition services. These services may be claimed on State and Federal constitutional grounds or through provisions of the Federal Education for All Handicapped Children Act. 12 references. (Author abstract modified)