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An official website of the State of Maryland.

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Mission, Vision and Values

The Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) is an executive agency whose primary task is to appropriately manage, supervise, and treat youth who are involved in the juvenile justice system in Maryland.

The Department of Juvenile Services is involved in nearly every stage of the juvenile justice process from the moment a youth is brought into a juvenile intake center by the police or as a result of a citizen complaint to the time when a youth returns to the community after completing treatment.

Our mission

To empower youth and advance public safety through opportunity, accountability, and community partnership.

Our vision

Empowered youth. Strong families. Safe communities.

Our value​s

Collaboration • Developmental Approach • Transparency • Equity