While it is generally believed that juvenile records have little, if any, effect on a child’s future, that is not the case. Armed forces recruiters consider an applicant’s history, including involvement in the juvenile justice system. Also, should your child be accused of an offense while an adult, a juvenile record can be considered by the court in determining an appropriate sentence. Again, while juvenile offenses may not be taken seriously in some people’s eyes because they occur in “kiddie court”, these proceedings are part of a court process that can impact your child’s future as well as his or her immediate freedom and your family’s long term involvement with the Department of Juvenile Justice.