Key elements of the system addressed include the social context (i.e., the system's interdependence with other child development and protection systems), court jurisdiction, and the system's organizational structure and process (from arrest through release and aftercare). The report also discusses the number and characteristics of criminal and status offenses and offenders, including victim and geographic considerations. It reviews the handling of persons who are abused, neglected and dependent, or who have special problems; case classification and disposition; and executive, legislative, and judicial trends affecting the system (diversion/screening, alternatives to institutionalization, emphasis on serious offenders, and separation of juveniles from adults). The report discusses juvenile treatment programs, economic implications, and evaluation techniques. It also identifies recommendations for research or action. Supplementary data, methodology, and 35 references are appended.