JUVENILE HALL Meaning and
Definition
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Juvenile hall is a legal term referring to a secure facility or institution specifically designed to house and rehabilitate individuals who are under the age of majority, usually from 10 to 17 years old, and have committed a delinquent act or offense. It serves as a temporary detention center where young offenders are held before their court hearings or during their sentences.
The primary purpose of a juvenile hall is to provide a safe and structured environment for incarcerated youth in order to protect both the young offenders and the community. It aims to rehabilitate rather than punish, focusing on addressing the underlying issues that contributed to the delinquency and facilitating the young person's personal growth and character development. Education, counseling, and vocational programs are often provided in juvenile halls to assist in their reintegration into society upon release.
Juvenile halls are typically operated by government agencies, such as county probation departments, and follow specific laws and regulations pertaining to the treatment of young offenders. The conditions in these facilities are intended to be less harsh and traumatic compared to adult correctional institutions, taking into consideration the developmental and emotional needs of juveniles.
While the specific rules and regulations vary by jurisdiction, the overarching goal of juvenile hall is to provide a controlled environment where delinquent youth can receive guidance, support, and education to prevent future criminal behavior, ultimately giving them an opportunity to turn their lives around.
Etymology of JUVENILE HALL
The word "juvenile hall" is derived from the combination of the words "juvenile" and "hall".
The term "juvenile" originates from the Latin word "juvenilis", which means "young" or "youthful". It entered the English language in the early 17th century, referring to a young person who is not yet an adult.
The word "hall" has Old English roots, derived from the Germanic word "hallan" which means "covered place" or "large building". In English, it came to refer to a large room or building used for a specific purpose or designated for a particular group of people.
When "juvenile" is combined with "hall", the compound term "juvenile hall" specifically refers to a facility or institution designed to house and provide services for young offenders or delinquent minors.
