Juvenile Justice

Catalog description

The course focuses on the unique issues presented when adolescents (generally 13-18 years of age) are accused of committing crimes in the family and criminal courts. The course begins with a comparative analysis of the two systems and their differing approaches, in areas such as diversion, pre-trial detention, procedural safeguards, and sentencing goals and alternatives. Students are then required to assume the roles of prosecutors, defense attorneys and judges in crafting motions and responses, arguing positions before the court and issuing written decisions. The course emphasizes development of courtroom skills through working on case scenarios based on real-life situations. Students are evaluated based on their written and oral presentations, judicial decisions and a final written case analysis as well as class participation.