Juvenile Services Agency-Court – Annapolis, MD

Department of Juvenile Services – Court Services

Supporting Youth in the Justice System

The Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) maintains a critical presence within the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court on Church Circle. This unit focuses on the intake, probation, and court processing phases of the juvenile justice system. Unlike the department’s field offices, which focus on community supervision, the Court Services unit works directly with the judiciary to assess youth entering the system, provide immediate recommendations to judges, and ensure that court orders are understood and initiated effectively. The agency operates with a balanced approach, prioritizing public safety while emphasizing rehabilitation and restorative justice for youth.

Court-Based Functions

• Intake & Assessment: DJS officers review complaints against juveniles to determine whether cases should be forwarded to the State’s Attorney for formal prosecution or handled informally through diversion programs.
• Courtroom Advocacy: Staff present during hearings to provide background information, risk assessments, and placement recommendations to the presiding judge.
• Detention Decisions: The agency makes critical determinations regarding whether a youth requires secure detention prior to their hearing or if they can be released to a guardian under supervision.

Access and Protocol

Located inside the historic Circuit Court building, this office is subject to strict courthouse security. Visitors must pass through metal detectors and bag checks. This location is primarily for court-related matters, hearings, and immediate intake processing; ongoing probation meetings or family counseling sessions are typically referred to the main DJS field office on Old Solomons Island Road or other community locations.