What is the purpose of the Detention Assessment Instrument (DAI)?

The Detention Assessment Instrument (DAI) serves a key role in the juvenile justice system by helping to make informed detention decisions. It is designed to evaluate whether a juvenile should be detained or released while awaiting further court proceedings. The DAI assesses various risk factors and circumstances surrounding an individual case, ensuring that decisions about detention are based on data and evidence rather than solely on subjective judgment. By using this tool, juvenile justice professionals can better understand the likelihood of reoffending or failing to appear in court, leading to more appropriate and tailored decisions regarding the detention of juveniles.

The other options do not accurately reflect the DAI's primary purpose. While sentencing and rehabilitation assessment are important aspects of juvenile justice, they fall outside the direct functions of the DAI. Additionally, evaluating family situations is a crucial component in a young person's overall assessment but is typically conducted through different instruments or assessments, not specifically through the DAI.