Youth Law Center

The Youth Law Center advocates to transform foster care and juvenile justice systems across the nation so every child and youth can thrive.

The Youth Law Center is a national public interest legal advocacy organization that has worked since 1978 to improve the lives of youth in the child welfare and juvenile justice system through protecting against abuse and neglect as well as ensuring youth receive the necessary supports to become healthy and productive adults. Our attorneys and advocates use skills to engage in tailored creative advocacy including litigation, policy reform, systems change work, research and writing, public education and training, and collaborative technical assistance. Throughout our history, we have fought for laws and policies that reduce incarceration and institutional care, and assure that children who are removed from their homes are held in safe, humane conditions; are treated fairly; and receive the education, health care, mental health care, family connection, and transition services they need for healthy development.