Every state has different laws when it comes to trying youth in juvenile or adult court. For example, prior to October 1, 2018, all 16- and 17-year-olds in New York City were tried as adults in criminal court (regardless of the charge) and could be detained on Rikers Island. Now that the law has changed, youth aged 7 to 17 can remain in Family Court when they are charged with a misdemeanor or non-violent felony, but juveniles charged with certain violent felonies will still be tried in adult court. Based upon what you've learned so far, please answer the following questions:
- What should be the purpose of the juvenile justice system and at what age should youth be prosecuted in court for committing a delinquent act (i.e., what should the minimum age be)?
- What factors should a judge be considering when deciding whether to parole (release home) versus remand (detain) a youth pending trial in Family Court?
- Please provide at least one question that you have about the juvenile justice process?