Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) Practice Exam

What is one of the 5 overriding principles of the Juvenile Justice System?

1. Restoring Victims

2. Punitive Measures

3. Restorative Justice

4. Deterring Crime

The correct answer is: Restoring Victims

One of the five overriding principles of the Juvenile Justice System focuses on restoring victims. This principle emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the harm caused to victims and working towards making them whole. The juvenile system prioritizes healing and restoration for all parties involved, which includes providing support and resources for victims affected by juvenile offenses. By placing a strong emphasis on the needs and rights of victims, the system seeks to promote accountability among juvenile offenders while facilitating a process that allows victims to receive restitution or other forms of healing. While alternatives like punitive measures, restorative justice, and deterrence have their places in discussions about juvenile justice, they may not align as closely with the primary goals of the system. The emphasis here is more on rehabilitation and support rather than punishment or simply discouraging future crimes. The principle of restoring victims helps create a more balanced approach that acknowledges both the impact on victims and the potential for juveniles to learn and grow from their actions.