The text brings together varying views and the practical experience of judges from all sections of the country. Individual sections explain the history and philosophy of the juvenile court, its jurisdiction, its administration, and the roles of court staff. Further chapters explain the relationship between police and children, intake procedures, detention and shelter care, and the nature and use of the social study. Other chapters detail the procedures involved in court hearings, factors involved in determining dispositions, treatment alternatives, the role of probation, court records, community resources, and the role of the juvenile court judge. Index, list of selected readings, and lists of officers and committee members of the National Council on Crime and Delinquency and the National Council of Juvenile Court judges