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Juveniles In Adult Court Cases

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Mistakes or murders? Children or criminals? Answering these questions requires much deliberation. Trying juveniles in adult court cases isn't orthodox. But such incidents are increasing in America. In 2014 two Wisconsin girls stabbed their classmate 19 times. The state found the twelve-year-olds guilty without considering psychological imbalances (Hanna, Jason). Natural instinct urges one to comply with the decision. However, certain circumstances change perspectives, but only when presented. Trying minors as adults isn't sensible and overlooks many conflicts. Juveniles aren't mentally developed, risk harm in jail, and don't receive adult rights. First and foremost, determining a crime requires the addressing of two criteria. A crime is acknowledged only when "Actus Reus" or a guilty act and "Mens Rea" or criminal intent are identified (Holloway). The foundation of criminal law is based on these two. A few small words such as "it was an accident," can change a prison sentence. For example, a stranger steals candy (guilty act) on purpose (criminal intent). Since the thief meant to steal, jail time is imminent. But what eight-year-old means to murder someone? Kids can barely carry out chores, let alone crimes. Even so, one might argue that murder is still murder. Absolutely, and returning a life …show more content…

A fair comparison is, throwing a lamb into a tiger pit. Incarcerating people is punishment for wrong doings and a chance to redeem themselves. But in adult jails, children lose that chance. Physically violating minors has unimaginable impacts on such tender minds. Not to mention courts overlooking psychological stability, but this leads to unjust sentences. Ironically minors can be tried as adults, but can't be treated like them. A crime shouldn’t block a person’s path, but allow them to realize their mistake. Jailing juveniles steers them in a direction which is poisonous for

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