PerfectCustomPapers | Determining whether to try a child in the juvenile or the criminal justice system

Determining whether to try a child in the juvenile or the criminal justice system

Determining whether to try a child in the juvenile or the criminal justice system will have an impact on every step of his or her experience. Although the exact laws and practices of the systems vary from state to state, broad underlying beliefs differentiate the two systems. While the juvenile system is often thought to be more lenient in its punishments, there are often stricter regulations throughout the process. In the juvenile system, a child may not have a right to a jury trial or bail. Juvenile records are not open to public access like adult criminal records and parole is very different between the two systems. When the child in question is treated by the justice system as a child, the courts act as more of a parent attempting to punish but also protect. Differences between juvenile and adult criminal justice systems exist at every step of the way. Choose one of the cases and answer the following questions:

Which case did you choose? Was the defendant tried as an adult or a juvenile?
Evaluate whether you agree with the decision made to try the juvenile as an adult or as a juvenile. What factors did you rely on to arrive at this decision?
What scholarly evidence did you use in making your decision? Why is this resource credible and compelling?
Compare your chosen case to that of Christian Fernandez (covered in your text at the beginning of Chapter 5). What similarities and differences are there? Would you have tried Christian as an adult if you were the prosecutor? Why or why not?
Are girls (women) treated the same as boys (men) in the criminal justice system? Be sure to thoroughly analyze both juvenile and adult offenders of each gender.

Sample Answer

I chose the case of Jamie Lee Bolin, who was tried as an adult and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murders of his parents when he was 17 years old.

Bolin’s case is significant because it highlights the complex and often controversial issue of whether or not to try juveniles as adults. There are a number of factors that courts consider when making this decision, including the age of the offender, the severity of the crime, and the offender’s maturity level.

Full Answer Section

In Bolin’s case, the court found that he was sufficiently mature and culpable to be tried as an adult. The court also considered the fact that Bolin had a history of violence and that he had planned the murders of his parents in advance.

Bolin’s case also raises questions about the fairness of the juvenile justice system. Some critics argue that the juvenile justice system is too lenient on offenders, while others argue that it is unfair to punish juveniles as adults.

In conclusion, Bolin’s case is a complex and controversial one that raises important questions about the juvenile justice system. It is a case that is sure to continue to be debated for years to come.

Impact of trying a child as an adult

Sentencing: Children who are tried as adults are typically subject to harsher sentences than those who are tried in the juvenile justice system. This is because the adult criminal justice system is designed to punish and deter crime, while the juvenile justice system is designed to rehabilitate offenders.

Records: Juvenile records are typically confidential, while adult criminal records are typically public. This means that children who are tried as adults may have a difficult time getting a job or housing after they are released from prison.

Parole: Children who are tried as adults are typically eligible for parole sooner than those who are tried in the juvenile justice system. This is because the adult criminal justice system is focused on punishment and rehabilitation, while the juvenile justice system is focused on rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Impact on the child

Psychological impact: Being tried as an adult can have a significant psychological impact on a child. Children who are tried as adults may experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They may also have difficulty trusting adults and forming relationships.

Social impact: Being tried as an adult can also have a significant social impact on a child. Children who are tried as adults may be stigmatized by their peers and community members. They may also have difficulty finding a job or housing after they are released from prison.

Conclusion

Trying a child as an adult should be a last resort. It is important to remember that children are still developing and that they have the potential to change. Children who are tried as adults are more likely to reoffend than those who are tried in the juvenile justice system.

This question has been answered.

Get Answer

No More Worries!

Paper Formatting

No Lateness!

Our Guarantees