NCJ Number
166274
Date Published
1996
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article describes the French penal system as applied to minors who commit the most serious offenses.
Abstract
In France only the most serious offenses (e.g., murder, rape and armed theft) are classified as crimes. These incur the heaviest sentences following actions called criminal procedure. Ordinary theft and deliberate violence without aggravating circumstances are considered misdemeanors. Crimes (if the accused is over 16) are prosecuted in the High Court. The Youth Court deals with young people under 16 years of age. A specially composed Youth High Court is set up for accused young people aged 16-18. The article describes the similarities and differences of these courts as well as trial and sentencing procedures. The specificity of minors' law is based essentially on the priority given to reformative measures. Judges, psychologists, and other professionals in the field consider reform incompatible with any type of institutional confinement. Reformatories and rehabilitative institutions with locked and barred doors and windows no longer exist.