Innovative “Youth Justice Navigator” App Designed to Bridge the Information Gap for Families Navigating Complex Legal Processes 

Los Angeles, CA  — For many families in Los Angeles, navigating the juvenile legal system is a daunting and disempowering experience. Thanks to a $1.35 million grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Southwestern Law School is tackling this challenge with the development of the Youth Justice Navigator (YJN)—a digital platform designed to simplify legal processes, improve outcomes, and empower youth and their families. 

Led by Southwestern Professor Jyoti Nanda, a nationally recognized expert in youth justice, the project is a collaboration with UCLA School of Law and involves formerly incarcerated youth as key contributors. The app and website aim to provide accessible legal knowledge in multiple languages to help families understand their rights and make informed decisions. 

"The Youth Justice Navigator is about breaking down barriers," said Professor Nanda, Faculty Director and Principal Investigator. "We want youth and their families to feel equipped to actively participate in their cases—because informed engagement leads to better outcomes and, ultimately, a fairer system." 

Why It Matters 

Los Angeles County is home to the largest juvenile legal system in the nation, impacting over 30,000 youth annually. The process is often confusing, with court procedures written at a college reading level while many system-impacted youth read at an elementary level. Families face additional barriers, including legal jargon, limited access to multilingual resources, and strained public defenders with heavy caseloads. 

The Youth Justice Navigator addresses these challenges by providing: 

• Simplified Legal Guidance: Legal terms and procedures explained in clear, accessible language.
• Interactive Tools: Step-by-step guides, role explanations, and videos to help users prepare for court appearances. 
• Collaborative Development: Content created with input from formerly incarcerated youth to ensure relevance and usability. 
• Multilingual Support: Resources available in multiple languages to serve LA’s communities. 

Real Voices, Real Solutions 

For Edin Madrid, a formerly incarcerated youth contributing to the project, the Youth Justice Navigator is more than just an app—it’s a lifeline for families like his. "When I was navigating the system, I felt like I was in the dark. I didn’t understand what was happening, and my family didn’t either," said Madrid. "This app will help other kids, and their families feel empowered and supported in a way I never was." 

A Path Forward 

The Youth Justice Navigator will launch as a pilot in Los Angeles County in 2025, with plans to expand the model to jurisdictions nationwide. The project also trains defense attorneys to use the tool in their practice, fostering better communication with clients and improving representation. 

"This initiative showcases Southwestern Law School’s commitment to equity, justice, and innovation," said Southwestern President and Dean Darby Dickerson. "We are proud to support a project that will not only impact our community but also set a precedent for juvenile justice reform nationwide."