Today, there is increased sensitivity in promoting a safer and more holistic environment for juvenile facilities, thereby, making the planning, design, engineering, and efficient occupancy of the juvenile facility as critical as the adult facility. The juvenile detention facility of the future has significant requirements related to the type of offender, the youth, the sophistication and expectations of the youth, and the legal challenges that are presented to the facility. This article describes and examines the unique and different characteristics of juvenile detention facilities and adult detention facilities, as well as the similarities and differences in terminology used. The day-to-day operation of a juvenile detention center is described by examining several key areas ranging from security and control, education, health, and staff to intake and release. The article concludes with the impact of planning and designing the juvenile detention facility taking into account security and safety issues, technology/information and communication system needs, and documentation (policy and procedure guidelines) and training. Endnotes