What Is a Juvenile Assessment Center?
A Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC) is a centralized intake and screening facility where youth are assessed after an arrest to determine the most appropriate next steps within the juvenile justice system.
The Juvenile Assessment Center operated by DISC Village was established in 1995 through collaboration with local and state government agencies and nonprofit organizations. The program provides prevention, intervention, and redirection services designed to support youth and families during a critical moment.
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, the JAC focuses on understanding each youth’s individual needs and connecting them with the appropriate level of care, supervision, or support.
What Happens After a Juvenile Is Arrested in Florida?
After a juvenile is arrested in Florida, they are typically transported to a Juvenile Assessment Center for screening and evaluation.
At the JAC, trained multidisciplinary staff:
- Conduct comprehensive assessments
- Evaluate risk factors and individual needs
- Determine appropriate placement or release options
This process ensures that decisions are based on more than the charge alone, taking into account the youth’s history, current circumstances, and level of supervision required.
Juvenile Assessment Center Services
DISC Village’s Juvenile Assessment Center offers a range of services designed to assess, support, and guide youth following an arrest.
Comprehensive Screenings and Assessments: Multidisciplinary staff conduct evaluations to identify the underlying factors contributing to the youth’s behavior and determine appropriate placement recommendations.
Drug Screening: A variety of drug screening services are available for youth who may be at risk or have a history of substance use, helping inform next steps and service needs.
Case Management: Staff provides case management services that include:
- Identifying service recommendations
- Coordinating access to community-based resources
- Supporting youth and families through the process
Information Clearinghouse: The JAC offers a library of educational and informational resources for youth and families, helping them better understand available services and next steps.
How Does the Juvenile Detention Decision Process Work?
As a secure receiving facility, the Juvenile Assessment Center follows the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) guidelines to determine whether a youth is released or detained.
This process uses the Detention Risk Assessment Instrument (DRAI), which evaluates:
- The current charge
- Prior history
- Level of supervision
Based on this scoring system, a decision is made to:
- Release the youth to a parent or guardian
OR
- Transfer the youth to a secure detention facility
This structured process ensures consistency, fairness, and appropriate decision-making.
How Long Can a Youth Stay at a Juvenile Assessment Center?
Under Department of Juvenile Justice policies, youth must be released from the Juvenile Assessment Center within six (6) hours of arrival.
During this time, all screenings, assessments, and placement decisions are completed to ensure a timely and efficient process for both youth and families.
The Value of a Juvenile Assessment Center
Juvenile Assessment Centers play a critical role in Florida’s juvenile justice system by:
- Providing immediate assessment after arrest
- Identifying underlying needs and risk factors
- Connecting youth to appropriate services
- Supporting informed and fair placement decisions
- Helping reduce unnecessary detention
At DISC Village, the JAC reflects a commitment to balancing accountability with support, ensuring that youth are guided toward positive outcomes whenever possible.
Supporting Youth and Families at a Critical Moment
DISC Village provides a full range of Criminal Justice Services in Florida, connecting youth and families to prevention, diversion, and support programs. The Juvenile Assessment Center serves as a key entry point into services that can redirect a young person’s path.
By combining structured assessment, professional expertise, and community-based resources, DISC Village helps youth and families navigate the juvenile justice process with clarity, support, and a focus on better outcomes.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you and your loved ones.