- Question
What are the pros and cons of trying juveniles as adults in court?
The criminal justice system operates with the understanding that a juvenile’s action may not be the same as an adult’s - and, instead, that the juvenile might merit unique consideration under the law - and that punishment should perhaps be tailored towards development and reform. However, this has resulted in controversy. Should everyone be sentenced equally regardless of their age? Or should society recognise that juveniles are too young to fully consider the consequences of their actions to be tried as adults?
Juveniles should be tried as adults in court
Prosecution and trials are not only for punishment but act as a learning experience, which is especially necessary for juveniles. Those old enough to commit serious crimes do not have an extreme difference in cognitive function compared to adults.
Juveniles should not be tried as adults in court
Anyone under the age of 18 is a child, and should not be tried as adults. Subjecting them can have multiple repercussions in the present and future. It is not fair for juveniles to be subjected to have the same expectations as adults,