About the Children’s Justice Center

Juab/Millard County Children’s Justice Center: A Place of Safety and Hope

Since opening in 2017, the Juab/Millard Children’s Justice Center (CJC) has been a steady source of care and recovery for children impacted by abuse.

Based in Nephi, Utah, the CJC offers a calm, child-friendly setting where young people can access coordinated services that support healing and safety.

The center has become a vital community resource, using a team-based approach to meet the complex needs of children and their families.

A Safe Haven for Vulnerable Children

The CJC is built around the promise of a safe and nurturing space for children who have experienced abuse.

Its environment is welcoming and non-threatening, helping children feel at ease as they share difficult experiences and begin to heal.

From thoughtful decor to play areas, the space is designed for comfort, supported by staff trained to engage children with patience and compassion.

Multidisciplinary Team Approach

A core strength of the CJC is its multidisciplinary team (MDT), which brings together professionals to collaborate on each case.

The team commonly includes law enforcement, child protective services, medical providers, mental health clinicians, and prosecutors.

Working together, they deliver a coordinated response that addresses legal, medical, and emotional needs.

This shared approach provides a thorough evaluation and keeps cases moving with care and efficiency.

It also limits repeated interviews, reducing the burden on children.

Overall, the MDT model improves outcomes and strengthens community protection.

Forensic Interviews and Medical Examinations

Forensic interviews are a key service offered by the CJC.

Specially trained interviewers use developmentally appropriate, legally sound methods.

The goal is to gather accurate information in a way that feels safe and as low-stress as possible.

Interviews are typically recorded to avoid repeated retellings.

The CJC also offers medical examinations by pediatric providers with child-abuse expertise.

These exams assess health needs and collect forensic evidence when needed.

Medical staff provide reassurance and guidance to children and caregivers about next steps.

Therapeutic Services and Support

Recovery is a long journey, and the CJC provides ongoing therapeutic support for children from infancy through age 18.

Services include individual counseling, group sessions, and family therapy.

Care is designed to help children process experiences, build resilience, and develop healthy coping skills.

Therapists use trauma-informed, evidence-based practices tailored to each child.

They partner with parents and caregivers to support healing at home.

This safe space for expression helps children regain stability and well-being.

Community Education and Outreach

Beyond direct services, the CJC is active in education and outreach.

The center trains professionals and community members to recognize and respond to abuse.

Workshops, presentations, and resources raise awareness of child abuse and its impact.

Education helps prevent abuse and ensures those who work with children know how to report concerns.

This proactive approach builds a safer, more protective community.

Support for Families

Abuse affects entire families, not just the child.

The CJC provides services for non-offending caregivers, including counseling and support groups.

Families receive help navigating legal and social service systems.

This support strengthens the home environment and aids recovery.

The center also connects families with community resources.

By addressing broader impacts, the CJC promotes long-term well-being.

Volunteers and Community Support

The CJC depends on volunteers and community partners to fulfill its mission.

Volunteers assist with children and families, administrative needs, and outreach.

Local businesses, organizations, and donors contribute through gifts and fundraising.

Community support sustains high-quality services.

This involvement reflects a shared commitment to protecting children.

A Legacy of Healing and Hope

Since 2017 the Juab/Millard CJC has offered hope to hundreds of children and families.

Its comprehensive, compassionate approach helps children heal and move forward.

The center’s commitment to safety and effective care underscores its role in the community.

As the CJC grows, its focus on protecting children remains steadfast.

With continued community support, it will remain a refuge where every child can thrive.