Juvenile Court Programs
Juvenile Court Programs, part of the Oregon Judicial Department’s Court Programs Division, supports juvenile courts statewide by creating and implementing programs that serve youth, families, and juvenile system partners. These programs provide clear, consistent information and practical tools to help navigate the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, improving court efficiency and outcomes.
The program leads strategic planning, analyzes statewide data, and collaborates with partners to shape policies and evaluate laws impacting juvenile court operations. It also offers training and education for judges, court staff, and system partners across Oregon.
Juvenile Court Improvement Program (JCIP)
Established in the early 1990s, JCIP administers the federal Court Improvement Program grant from the Children’s Bureau. This grant helps improve court practices in child abuse and neglect cases. JCIP strengthens collaboration among local courts, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), and Oregon’s federally recognized Tribes. Guided by a statewide Advisory Committee, JCIP focuses on improving legal representation, hearing quality, court data, permanency outcomes, family engagement, ICWA compliance, and safety decision-making. Its vision is to elevate child welfare cases and improve outcomes for families statewide.
Juvenile Delinquency Improvement Program (JDIP)
Launched in 2021, JDIP improves Oregon’s response to youth in the delinquency system, aiming for better outcomes for youth, families, victims, and communities. In partnership with the Center for State Governments, JCIP conducted a statewide assessment to identify areas for improvement. In 2022, JDIP received a federal grant to expand resources and support family engagement. Guided by an Advisory Committee and a Juvenile Justice Youth Advisory Board, JDIP ensures judicial, partner, and youth voices are central to its work.
Oregon State Tribal Partnership ICWA Initiative (OSTP)
The OSTP ICWA Initiative, launched in 2023, strengthens Indian child welfare practices across Oregon. This collaboration between JCIP, ODHS, and The Klamath Tribes works to preserve families of federally recognized Tribes, protect children, and maintain cultural connections. OSTP actively engages Oregon’s nine federally recognized Tribes and court and community partners to promote collaboration and culturally responsive services.
Citizen Review Board (CRB)
CRB brings community oversight to Oregon’s foster care system. Trained volunteers review cases of children in foster care to ensure safety, well-being, and timely permanency. These reviews promote transparency and accountability, giving citizens a meaningful role in shaping child welfare policies. Currently, 55 boards operate in 33 counties, helping ensure child in foster care receive the advocacy they deserve.
Family Treatment Court Program (FTC)
FTC supports the development and sustainability of family treatment courts across Oregon. The program promotes best practices, strengthens collaboration among system partners, and expands access to treatment court services. Guided by a statewide Advisory Committee, FTC focuses on improving family well-being, reducing foster care time, and increasing successful reunifications. A statewide FAQ resource addresses best practices, common challenges, and available supports for family treatment courts.