Participation in SHOCAP by localities is voluntary. The SHOCAP program may be established by a local governing body if that body recognizes the need to provide coordinated, comprehensive service delivery to serious or habitual juvenile offenders while protecting the community from additional serious juvenile crimes. Following a section on definitions, the guidelines describe committee structure and composition. The next section outlines participant duties and responsibilities for the following entities: police department/sheriff's office, court services, detention centers or group homes, Department of Juvenile Justice, Commonwealth's Attorney, schools, social services, mental health/mental retardation/substance abuse services, medical health agencies, and State and local children and family service agencies. Two sections provide guidelines for program management and case management. Another section presents regulations pertinent to the confidentiality of SHOCAP information. Remaining sections of the guidelines contain a suggested resolution for the establishment of a local SHOCAP committee and address parental notification, technical assistance, and annual reporting.