In some juvenile crime cases where the juvenile has no prior record and the crime alleged is relatively minor, the law enforcement officers involved may determine that it is best to avoid filing a formal criminal complaint.  In those cases, what is known as a “stationhouse adjustment” will take place, and involves a meeting between the child’s parents or guardian and the victim. Generally, some sort of punishment will be agreed upon—such as requiring the minor to make restitution or attend educational courses designed to prevent further juvenile criminal behavior.  This can allow the minor to avoid the formal juvenile criminal justice system.