NCJ Number
95439
Date Published
1984
Length
223 pages
Annotation
This text explains how the criminal justice system works and how it may impact people's lives.
Abstract
Differences between adult and juvenile justice are identified, and a story is told to illustrate these differences. John, 18, and Laurie, 17, are arrested for car theft. The difference in their ages is crucial; John must go through the adult criminal justice system, but Laurie goes through the juvenile justice system. Their experiences with lawyers, public defenders, police officers, witnesses, district attorneys, judges, and probation officers are described. Causes of crime, including poverty, permissive parents, numerous youths, youth unemployment, and the criminal justice system itself, are discussed. Reasons why laws are needed are explored, and reasons why they change are considered. The Bill of Rights is explained, and a story is told to illustrate what might happen without the bill. The two primary responsibilities of the police -- to enforce the law and to maintain order -- are addressed, and the purpose of the fourth amendment, to protect persons against unreasonable searches and seizures, is examined. The purpose of an arrest is discussed, and the rights of the person who has been arrested are identified. The responsibilities of lawyers, judges, and witnesses at a trial are outlined, and the elements of the trial are discussed. Some insight into what it is like to be a prisoner is provided, and explanations of parole, probation, and the death penalty are included. A glossary, a 13-item bibliography, and numerous references are included.