Facing challenges with youth behavior can be overwhelming, and families often seek guidance and solutions when issues escalate. While Suffolk County Family Court addresses legal matters involving families and children, it’s important to know that numerous programs exist to support families proactively and prevent situations from reaching the courtroom. This article outlines key alternatives and support systems available in Suffolk County, designed to assist families in addressing youth behavioral issues and promoting positive development.
One crucial resource is Alternatives For Youth (AFY), a pre-Person In Need of Supervision (PINS) diversion program. AFY serves as the initial point of contact for parents grappling with children under 18 exhibiting patterns of incorrigible behaviors. These behaviors can include running away, curfew violations, or general defiance at home. Instead of immediately turning to formal legal avenues like Suffolk County Family Court, parents are encouraged to contact AFY first.
The AFY Screening Unit, reachable at (631) 853-7889, operates Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. A simple phone call to this unit, or to (631) 853-5281, can initiate the process. It’s critical to note that families should not visit a Probation Department office to start AFY services, as all initial steps are handled via phone. In-person visits will likely cause delays as these offices are not equipped for direct AFY intake.
During the phone screening, Probation Department personnel will assess whether the family’s situation is suitable for diversion services. Eligibility hinges on demonstrating a pattern of recent incorrigible behaviors, which might encompass substance abuse, running away, or resistance to parental authority. If deemed eligible, families are promptly referred to the Alternatives For Youth Program, typically within 72 hours. An AFY caseworker will then contact the family to conduct a thorough evaluation and connect them with appropriate resources.
AFY provides a comprehensive suite of services aimed at stabilizing family crises and fostering long-term positive change. These services begin with immediate, home-based crisis intervention delivered by a dedicated Case Manager. The Case Manager’s role is to stabilize the immediate crisis, implement a tailored Family Intervention Plan, and link the family with vital community resources that offer ongoing support. AFY facilitates access to a wide array of services, including:
- Substance abuse treatment linkages
- Anger management programs
- Mentoring opportunities
- Individual and family counseling services
- Mental health evaluations
Recognizing the importance of peer influence, AFY incorporates Peer Specialists into its program. These male and female specialists engage youth in constructive recreational and educational activities, both individually and in group settings. For young women, the H.E.R.S. (Helping Each other Reach Success) peer group specifically focuses on promoting healthy choices. For young men, the Boys to Men group guides them in building strong character and improving essential life skills. Furthermore, AFY provides training sessions designed to empower parents, equipping them with enhanced skills to manage their family’s unique challenges and needs effectively.
Beyond AFY, Suffolk County offers Comprehensive Alternative to Incarceration Programs, a broader initiative aimed at reducing jail populations and enhancing public safety. These programs target various points within the criminal justice system, focusing on crime prevention, effective alternatives to incarceration, and recidivism reduction.
One key component is the CHANGE Program (Children All Need Good Experiences). Recognizing that early intervention is crucial in preventing gang involvement, CHANGE targets elementary-age children at risk of or already involved in gang activities. This program, a collaboration with S.T.R.O.N.G. Youth Inc., operates within the Brentwood, South Country, and Wyandanch School Districts, working to improve children’s school performance and behavior both at school and home.
For youth facing felony charges, the Suffolk County District Court Felony Youth offers a specialized approach. Modeled after drug and mental health courts, this court functions as a treatment court. It handles cases of eligible youth accused of felonies, providing supervision and treatment as alternatives to traditional court processing. Probation Officers are assigned to this court to supervise youth and coordinate efforts with external agencies.
Similarly, Drug Court & Mental Health Court within Suffolk County offer alternatives for defendants with substance abuse or mental health issues. These courts provide supervision and treatment in exchange for potentially reduced sentences, diverting individuals from incarceration and towards rehabilitation.
In conclusion, Suffolk County provides a robust network of programs designed to support families and youth facing behavioral challenges. From early intervention programs like AFY and CHANGE to specialized courts focusing on treatment and rehabilitation, these resources aim to prevent escalation to Suffolk County Family Court and promote positive outcomes for young people and their families. By proactively engaging with these alternatives, families can find support, guidance, and pathways to resolution outside of the formal court system.
