Who should juveniles be released to according to standard procedures?

Juveniles should be released to their legal guardians according to standard procedures because guardians have the legal responsibility for the care and custody of the child. This ensures that the juvenile is placed in a safe environment where they can be monitored and supported appropriately. Legal guardians are typically the individuals who have the legal right to make decisions on behalf of the juvenile and can provide the necessary support and supervision that is important for the juvenile's well-being and rehabilitation.

Releasing a juvenile to a social worker, counselor, or police officer does not comply with standard procedures as these individuals do not hold the same legal responsibilities for the juvenile as a guardian does. While social workers and counselors may play significant roles in the juvenile's rehabilitation process, the first priority in releasing a juvenile after an incident is to ensure they are returned to the safest and most appropriate place, which is with their legal guardian.