Before 1970, New Jersey's laws reflected longstanding cultural attitudes towards women. As a result, the criminal justice system treated both adult and juvenile females more harshly than it did males. Civil rights groups and other activists brought about legal reforms designed to eliminate sex discrimination. New Jersey's new juvenile code went into effect in 1974, and its adult criminal code took effect in 1979. These codes ended gender-based discrimination in the definition of crime and in the sentencing process. Although the new criminal code contains some nonneutral language it represents a great improvement, especially in areas of sexual offenses and sentencing. However, discrimination continues against female juvenile status offenders, both in the definition of punishable behavior and in the disposition process. Both male and female status offenders still do not have due process rights. A total of 14 references are included.