The paper is based on an extensive review of existing literature and research reports, as well as interviews with researchers who are developing and evaluating programs designed to break the drug-crime cycle among juveniles. The evaluation data are clear in indicating that an integrated, collaborative system that includes comprehensive assessment, referrals to appropriate services, case management along a continuum of care, and system collaboration has the greatest probability of successful outcomes. In developing a model system, guidelines are recommended. One guiding principle is that interventions should recognize the balance between accountability to the victim and the community, the need to protect the public, and the goal of rehabilitating and reintegrating juveniles. Another principle is that intervention must occur early when it has the best chance of reversing or ameliorating problem behaviors. Other principles pertain to a comprehensive needs assessment, a continuum of care, collaboration between and across systems, an agent or agency accountable for establishing and maintaining collaboration, program evaluation, and program sensitivity to the unique and culturally specific needs of adolescents. The paper describes the flow in a comprehensive system of intervention. 167 notes, appended supplementary material, and 152 references