The Pros And Cons Of The Juvenile Justice System

“‘Anyone who has a 22-year-old living in his childhood bedroom,” Schiraldi says, “knows they aren’t the same as older adults.’” (Requarth). Adolescents are increasingly tried in adult courts due to their crimes committed, these courts are more severe and harsh in their sentencing, which is not suitable for juveniles. The juvenile justice system was designed to serve the best interests of the child, by helping them with the use of unparalleled and extensive knowledge about adolescents and how their needs differed from that of adults. The adult courts are incapable of satisfying the necessities of juveniles. Justice isn’t served by bullying juveniles into a system that is not made for them, and by doing so only worsens their conditions. Trying

Frank leads the Center on Youth Justice’s (CYJ) work on young adult justice within the juvenile and adult justice systems on both a national and state level. “. . . neuroscience now shows young adults in this age group are still developing in important ways. They are forming their identity, learning to better manage their emotions and impulses, and preparing for their life goals. . . prison presents an unnatural social context which creates challenges for young adults to achieve these key developmental milestones.” (Frank). If young adults were to be tried in adult courts they would not only be treated unfairly but this would also affect them in the long run. They wouldn't be able to cope with their adult emotions over the years of their life, their mental development would be stalled due to the challenges presented to them while in prison. However, if they were to be tried in the juvenile justice system, where they rightfully should be, their emotions would be in check and they would be able to receive help from people that are well versed in their situation and most importantly the adolescent brain. These qualified officials such as therapists and mentors will have a positive influence towards