2026 Annual Conference

Each year, the Coalition for Juvenile Justice (CJJ) hosts a national conference that brings together juvenile justice practitioners, advocates, policymakers, and system stakeholders to discuss critical issues, share knowledge, and drive positive change within the juvenile justice system. Last year's event saw more than 350 juvenile justice professionals and advocates from across the U.S. and its territories converge to exchange ideas and solutions. This year, we invite you to join us for our 2026 Annual Conference. As we continue to build upon our 42 years, the conference will center around the power of collective action and collaboration, focusing on how we can work together to create lasting change for youth in the justice system. Together, we will explore how partnerships across sectors can create comprehensive services, systems, and policies that meet the needs of youth and families, foster positive outcomes, and uphold accountability and public safety. The theme emphasizes building strong relationships and the critical role of partnerships as we build momentum for the Continuum of Care framework. Attendees will engage with the latest research, best practices, and pressing challenges impacting the field today. Through shared learning and dialogue, we aim to strengthen our collective capacity to advance effective, sustainable solutions for young people, their families, and their communities. Questions to be explored: How can collaborative and cross system partnerships improve A) delivery of prevention services and supports B) Intervention services and supports C) Reentry services and supports for youth and families? How do we engage youth, lived experts, communities, and families in co-creating responses to root causes of delinquency? How can we educate and unite justice practitioners on strength-based, data-driven narratives for youth justice? What are the best policies and practices in the field to improve and/or stay in compliance with the JJDPA?