This guide was prepared in reply to requests for assistance in drafting state legislation from state legislatures, judges, lawyers, administrators of programs for the prevention and treatment of delinquency and neglect, and from others concerned with the drafting and enactment of legislation on these topics. The suggestions contained in this guide are the result of research and study which included review of state laws, Federal and state judicial decisions, field study of judicial and administrative practices in certain selected states, and discussions with individuals actively engaged in the field of prevention and treatment of delinquency and neglect. The guide attempts to set forth in legislative language certain basic principles regarding the operation of family and juvenile courts and the administration by executive agencies of state and local programs. Special emphases are placed on ways in which children can be diverted from the juvenile justice system consistent with the protection of both the juvenile and the public, and on providing services and facilities in the communities in which the children live. State and local agencies, legislative committees, and state and community planning agencies must determine how best to use these suggested statutory provisions to meet their own requirements, state constitution and legislation already enacted. (Author/RF)