The director of the arbitration program explains that arbitration serves as an alternative to court adjudication for first-time offenders. Techniques used for gaining community involvement and for locating funds are described, as are the requirements for volunteer arbitrators. Individual arbitrators examine cases in hearings and remain with them until completion. While community resources are often used in rehabilitation efforts, other options, such as restitution, are frequently applied. Sample cases are cited. Next, the executive director of San Francisco's Community Board Program argues that the growing agency system of professionals in juvenile justice and rehabilitation is weakening the effectiveness of juvenile justice. First-time offenders should be handled in their own neighborhoods without the intervention of outside professionals. A table of contents is included.