Tested and proven programs and strategies are available to successfully deal with multiple risk factors associated with juvenile delinquency. Moving from individual program accomplishments such as mentoring, home visits by nurses, and early intervention programs to broad-based system reform will ensure the long-term health and safety of communities. In particular, lawyers can join the guardian ad litem movement and provide pro bono and court-appointed representation for abused and neglected children. Reducing juvenile delinquency by reducing risk factors is discussed, with such risk factors identified as failing in school, associating with delinquent peers, and living in communities where there is easy access to drugs. The author recommends that juvenile delinquency programs and strategies be employed at each developmental stage of a child's life. He indicates that the legal community plays a significant role in juvenile court reform and in improving juvenile court services. Additionally, the author examines the role of criminal courts in dealing with juvenile crime and notes programs and strategies developed by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. 14 notes