How did the juvenile court get to where it is today?

The juvenile court system evolved in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, driven by a growing recognition that children are fundamentally different from adults and should be treated with rehabilitative rather than punitive measures. The establishment of the first juvenile court in Chicago in 1899 marked a significant shift, focusing on the welfare of the child and emphasizing individualized treatment. Over the decades, reforms and legal precedents have shaped the system, addressing issues like due process rights and the balance between rehabilitation and accountability. Today, juvenile courts continue to adapt, grappling with modern challenges such as mental health, substance abuse, and systemic inequalities.