A sophisticated, permanent structure will replace the current temporary bondings between these systems that arise to respond to specific circumstances. The rise of public concern for children with AIDS, abused children, and cocaine babies is giving rise to new attitudes in juvenile courts, turning attention away from delinquency towards dependency. Early intervention will shift the emphasis in the courts towards a child's formative years; sanctions against young offenders (under age 14) will consist of rehabilitation with reentry into the school system the ultimate goal. Delinquents aged 14-18 will receive longer sentences, accompanied by rehabilitation programs and after-care follow up. Child abuse cases will be referred, for the most part, to family relationship experts rather than to the courts. New types of schools will be established to meet the needs of disenfranchised youth. Social service agencies and even the court will be located on the premises of these schools in order to facilitate communication. Universities and private citizens can be expected to take leadership roles in assessment and research. Centralizing resources, simplifying communications, and eliminating interagency competition will allow the process to focus on the child.