If a child is behaving recklessly and breaking the law, should they be locked up or rehabilitated? Can parents rely on the juvenile justice system to provide resources to get their child back on track, or should the system solely provide punishment and lock them up?
 
Judge Melissa Powers, who presides in Hamilton County Ohio, says the juvenile justice system isn’t as terrible as some say. She says her goal is to keep kids in the classroom and not behind bars.
 

“Our main focus in juvenile court, obviously, is rehabilitation – but it’s always with a balance of public safety,” Judge Powers says. “The earlier we intervene with a child, the more chance and greater likelihood of success that they will get back on the right path, remain in school, and become productive members of society.”
 
Hear more from Judge Powers in the video above.
 
On Monday’s episode of Dr. Phil, “How Should We Treat Juvenile Delinquents?” parents share how the juvenile justice system has affected their lives and the lives of their children. Check local listings to see where you can watch.

WATCH: Mom Claims Son Is Locked Up For Minor Incidents, Victim Of School-To-Prison Pipeline

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