Juvenile justice system exam review

What is the juvenile justice system?

A legal framework focusing on minors who commit crimes, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment.

True or False: Juvenile records are always public.

False - Juvenile records are typically sealed to protect the youth's future.

Compare juvenile and adult justice systems.

Juvenile: focuses on rehabilitation. Adult: emphasizes punishment.

Fill in the blank: The age of criminal responsibility in most states is _____.

typically 18 years, varies by state.

What are status offenses?

Acts that are only crimes due to the age of the offender, e.g., truancy, underage drinking.

Cause → Effect: What causes detention?

Serious offenses or repeated minor offenses can lead to detention as a consequence.

What is diversion in juvenile justice?

Programs designed to redirect youth away from formal court proceedings to avoid stigma.

Define recidivism.

The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend, often measured after release.

What is a juvenile court?

A specialized court that handles cases involving minors, focusing on rehabilitation.

True or False: All juveniles receive the same treatment in court.

False - Treatment varies based on individual circumstances and offenses.

What are the main goals of the juvenile justice system?

Rehabilitation, accountability, public safety, and prevention of future offenses.

Example of a juvenile rehabilitation program.

Restorative justice programs, which involve the offender, victim, and community in resolution.

What are status offenses?

Juvenile offenses that aren't crimes for adults. - Examples: truancy, curfew violations.

True or False: Juveniles can be tried as adults.

True. In certain cases, such as serious felonies, juveniles may be tried in adult court.

Compare juvenile and adult court systems.

Juvenile: Focus on rehabilitation, closed proceedings. Adult: Focus on punishment, open proceedings.

Fill in the blank: The primary goal of the juvenile justice system is __________.

rehabilitation.

What is diversion in juvenile justice?

A process to redirect youth from formal prosecution to alternative programs.

Cause → Effect: What happens when a juvenile is incarcerated?

Increased risk of reoffending due to exposure to criminal influences.

What is the role of a probation officer?

Supervises juveniles on probation, ensures compliance with court orders.

True or False: All states have the same age of juvenile jurisdiction.

False. Age varies by state, typically from 16 to 18 years.

Define restorative justice.

A process that emphasizes repairing harm through inclusive practices, involving victims, offenders, and community.

What are the consequences of labeling a juvenile?

Can lead to stigma, increased risk of reoffending, and social isolation.

List two types of juvenile facilities.

1. Detention centers 2. Long-term residential treatment facilities.

What is the importance of the Graham v. Florida case?

It ruled that life sentences without parole for juveniles convicted of non-homicide offenses are unconstitutional.