How is being tried as a juvenile different than being tried as an adult?

In its current form, the adult criminal system focuses on punishment. There is very little regard for mitigating factors such as the offender’s environment, family history, background or extenuating circumstances.

In the juvenile system, the focus is on rehabilitation and getting services for a child. The idea is that children sometimes make bad decisions and with guidance they can make better choices as they get older. Locking up the child is a last resort.

The biggest difference is that in the juvenile system there is no entitlement to a jury by your peers. All trials are determined by the judge only.

Posted in: Juvenile