Juvenile Justice System: History and Philosophy

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of the Juvenile Court system?

Rehabilitating and protecting juvenile offenders (correct)

Providing legal representation to juvenile offenders

Punishing juvenile offenders

Prosecuting juvenile offenders in adult courts

What is the suggested time for defining critical terms relevant to the Missouri juvenile justice system?

30 minutes

10 minutes (correct)

20 minutes

40 minutes

How much time is suggested for describing the general legal framework of the juvenile justice process?

30 minutes

10 minutes (correct)

20 minutes

40 minutes

What is the total suggested time for listing the specific standards and requirements for investigations of juvenile delinquency and status offenses?

70 minutes Signup and view all the answers

How much time is suggested for identifying the roles and responsibilities of the various entities and stakeholders in the Juvenile Court process?

20 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What is the total suggested time for the entire lesson plan?

6 hours Signup and view all the answers

Who founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals?

Bergh Signup and view all the answers

What was Mary Ellen's bed at night?

A piece of carpet on the floor underneath a window Signup and view all the answers

Why was Mary Ellen never allowed to play with other children?

Because her mother was abusive Signup and view all the answers

What instrument did Mary Ellen's mother use to cut her with?

A pair of scissors Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of the early Juvenile Courts?

To act in the place of parents as needed and to rehabilitate wayward youth Signup and view all the answers

What is the concept of 'parens patriae'?

A legal doctrine that allows the state to intervene in the parent/child relationship Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the Kent v. United States case?

Morris Kent was sentenced to 30 to 90 years in prison Signup and view all the answers

In what year was the first Juvenile Court developed in Cook County, Illinois?

1899 Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of the Judge in early Juvenile Court hearings?

A 'father figure' Signup and view all the answers

How many years did the Juvenile Court system exist before the Supreme Court decided a series of landmark cases?

More than 60 years Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of Kent's appeal in the U.S. Supreme Court?

The waiver was deemed invalid Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Kent case?

It modified the belief that juveniles did not require the same due process protections as adults Signup and view all the answers

What was Gerald Gault accused of in the In re Gault case?

Making an obscene telephone call Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the In re Gault case?

Gault was committed to a training school Signup and view all the answers

What rights did the In re Gault case affirm for juveniles?

Right to notice, counsel, cross-examine witnesses, and protection against self-incrimination Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the In re Gault case?

It granted juveniles the same due process protections as adults Signup and view all the answers

What was Samuel Winship accused of in the In re Winship case?

Stealing money from a woman's purse Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the In re Winship case?

Winship was found guilty Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the In re Winship case?

It granted juveniles the same due process protections as adults Signup and view all the answers

What was the Court's view on the doctrine of parens patriae in the In re Gault case?

The Court explicitly rejected the doctrine of parens patriae Signup and view all the answers

What did the Court conclude about the Juvenile Court system in the In re Gault case?

The Juvenile Court system is primarily punitive Signup and view all the answers

What was the standard of evidence required in Juvenile Courts before the Winship case?

Preponderance of evidence Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Winship case?

Required juvenile courts to operate at the same standards as adult courts Signup and view all the answers

In the McKeiver case, what was the court's decision regarding trial by jury in Juvenile Court?

Ruled that trial by jury is not a constitutional requirement for juveniles Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the McKeiver case?

Ruled that due process does not require jury trials in Juvenile Court Signup and view all the answers

What was the impact of the Gault and Winship decisions?

Enhanced the accuracy of the Juvenile Court process in the fact-finding stage Signup and view all the answers

In the Breed v. Jones case, what was the court's ruling regarding double jeopardy?

Ruled that juvenile adjudication is equivalent to a trial in criminal court Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Breed v. Jones case?

Ruled that an adjudication in Juvenile Court is equivalent to a trial in criminal court Signup and view all the answers

When does jeopardy attach in a Juvenile Court case?

At the adjudication hearing when evidence is first presented Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Winship, McKeiver, and Breed v. Jones cases?

Enhanced the accuracy of the Juvenile Court process in the fact-finding stage Signup and view all the answers

What was the result of the appeal in the Breed v. Jones case?

The United States Supreme Court ruled that an adjudication in Juvenile Court is equivalent to a trial in criminal court Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Fare v. Michael C. case in terms of the concept of double jeopardy?

It broadened the concept of double jeopardy to include the potential or risk of trial and conviction. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key component to ensuring juvenile offenders are held accountable?

Initial contact and investigation by the Law Enforcement officer Signup and view all the answers

What was the juvenile's request to the police in the Fare v. Michael C. case?

To see his probation officer. Signup and view all the answers

What obligation do juvenile offenders incur upon committing a law violation?

To the individual victims and the community Signup and view all the answers

What was the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling regarding the applicability of the Miranda waiver in the Fare v. Michael C. case?

The request to speak with a probation officer does not invoke the Fifth Amendment right to remain silent. Signup and view all the answers

What should juvenile offenders develop during their time in the juvenile system?

Basic competencies such as anger management and empathy Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Schall v. Martin case?

It upheld the constitutionality of preventive detention statutes. Signup and view all the answers

What was the reason for Gregory Martin's detention in the Schall v. Martin case?

There was a 'serious risk' that he would commit another crime if released. Signup and view all the answers

What approach is used to help juvenile offenders move towards appropriate behavior?

Strength-based services Signup and view all the answers

What do strength-based services aim to help juvenile offenders do?

Move towards appropriate behavior Signup and view all the answers

According to the Schall v. Martin case, what is the primary purpose of preventive detention?

To protect both the juvenile and society from pretrial crime. Signup and view all the answers

Why are strength-based services important for juvenile offenders?

Because they have experienced significant failure and disengagement Signup and view all the answers

What procedure was in place to protect juveniles from wrongful deprivation of liberty in the Schall v. Martin case?

A probable cause hearing within a short period of time. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the parents patriae concept in the Schall v. Martin case?

It promotes the welfare of children. Signup and view all the answers

In the Fare v. Michael C. case, what was the consequence of the juvenile's request to see his probation officer?

His request was denied, and he proceeded to make statements and draw sketches. Signup and view all the answers

What is the implication of the Schall v. Martin case for the juvenile justice system?

Preventive detention is a legitimate means of protecting both the juvenile and society from pretrial crime. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor that the United States Supreme Court considers when deciding whether a person under 18 can be subjected to the death penalty?

Adolescent brain development Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the Missouri Juvenile Court system according to Section 211.011 RSMo?

To facilitate the care, protection, and discipline of children Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of the Missouri Juvenile Court system's rehabilitative approach?

To rehabilitate juvenile offenders Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Juvenile Court in ensuring the best interests of the child?

To balance the interests of the juvenile with the interests of the State Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor that the Juvenile Court considers when making informed decisions about a child's case?

Environmental circumstances, educational factors, mental health, substance abuse, and developmental issues Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary principle of the Missouri Juvenile Court system's case management activities?

Offender accountability Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of the juvenile justice system in Missouri?

To provide rehabilitation and treatment to juvenile offenders Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Supreme Court's decision regarding the age of majority?

No person under 18 can be subjected to the death penalty Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the Juvenile Court in ensuring the protection of the community?

To ensure that juvenile offenders are held accountable for their actions Signup and view all the answers

What is the main argument made in the case regarding the placement of youth in secure juvenile detention?

It is a punitive measure that should not be used in the Juvenile Court process. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Missouri Juvenile Court system's statutory obligation?

To facilitate the care, protection, and discipline of children Signup and view all the answers

What was the Vice Principal searching for when he requested to view the contents of the juvenile's purse?

Evidence of a crime Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the Supreme Court's decision in the New Jersey v. T.L.O. case?

The search of the purse was deemed reasonable. Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Roper v. Simmons case?

It ruled that executing a person less than eighteen years of age was unconstitutional. Signup and view all the answers

What was Christopher Simmons' age when he was sentenced to death?

17 years old Signup and view all the answers

What was the reasoning behind the Supreme Court's decision in Roper v. Simmons?

The court ruled that executing a person less than eighteen years of age was unconstitutional. Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the initial search of the juvenile's purse?

Drug paraphernalia and evidence of marijuana distribution were found. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between the rights of children and adults, according to the Supreme Court?

Children's rights are limited due to their age and need for education. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the balancing act between the interests of the State and the interests of the juvenile?

To balance the need for punishment with the need for rehabilitation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Fourth Amendment in the context of the New Jersey v. T.L.O. case?

It protects the rights of children in public schools. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary focus of the early Juvenile Court system?

Child abuse and neglect Signup and view all the answers

At what age was a child considered an adult with full discernment and responsibility in the early days of the juvenile justice system?

14 Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of the 'State' or government in the parent/child relationship in the early days of the juvenile justice system?

The 'State' did not interfere in the parent/child relationship Signup and view all the answers

What was the condition of children in poorhouses or asylums in the United States during the 19th century?

They were subjected to further physical and sexual abuse, as well as serious neglect and emotional deprivation Signup and view all the answers

Who was the Methodist missionary who helped to initiate the child protection system and Juvenile Court process in the United States?

Etta Wheeler Signup and view all the answers

What was the name of the child who was subjected to deliberate abuse and neglect by her foster mother, leading to the initiation of the child protection system and Juvenile Court process?

Mary Ellen Wilson Signup and view all the answers

In what year did the child protection system and Juvenile Court process begin in the United States?

1874 Signup and view all the answers

What was the age of children who were sent to work in factories during the 19th century?

9 to 10 Signup and view all the answers

What was the name of the system where children were placed on trains and sent to the developing western United States to perform manual labor?

Orphan Trains Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason why the early Juvenile Court system was established?

To protect children from abuse and neglect Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Brief History of the Juvenile Court System

There was no juvenile justice system 200 years ago:
- Children under 7 were considered "infants" and deemed incapable of criminal intent
- Children as young as 7 could be held criminally responsible and incarcerated with adults
- A child was considered an adult with full discernment and responsibility at 14
The American juvenile justice system originated in English common law
- Children were considered the property of their parents
- The state did not interfere in the parent/child relationship
- Children were sent to poorhouses, asylums, or "orphan trains" if abandoned or abused

Early Juvenile Court System

The first Juvenile Court was established in Cook County, Illinois in 1899
Missouri developed a Juvenile Court system in 1903
The purpose of the early Juvenile Courts was to act in the place of parents and rehabilitate wayward youth
Hearings were informal and held in private chambers, with the judge serving as a "father figure"

Concept of "Parens Patriae" and Best Interests of the Child

"Parens Patriae" is a legal doctrine that allows the state to intervene in the parent/child relationship
The doctrine is rooted in English common law and holds that the state can act in the best interests of a child when parents are found to be incompetent or incapable

Supreme Court Impact on Juvenile Justice

Kent v. United States (1966): Juveniles have the right to a hearing on the issue of jurisdiction, and their attorney should have access to all records involved in the waiver
In re Gault (1967): Juveniles have the right to notice, counsel, and protection against self-incrimination in hearings that could result in commitment to an institution
In re Winship (1970): The standard of evidence for adjudication of delinquency should be "proof beyond reasonable doubt"
McKeiver v. Pennsylvania (1971): Trial by jury is not a constitutional requirement for juveniles, but states may establish a system for trial by jury
Breed v. Jones (1975): An adjudication in Juvenile Court is equivalent to a trial in criminal court, and jeopardy applies at the adjudication hearing
Fare v. Michael C. (1979): A request to speak with a probation officer does not necessarily constitute an expression of the right to remain silent
Schall v. Martin (1984): Preventive detention of a juvenile is constitutional if the court finds there is a "serious risk" that the juvenile will commit another crime if released### Schall v. Martin (1984)
The US Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of a preventive detention statute, allowing for the detention of juveniles before trial.
The Court stated that preventive detention serves a legitimate state objective in protecting both the juvenile and society from pretrial crime.
The Court found that there were enough procedures in place to protect juveniles from wrongful deprivation of liberty, including notice, a statement of the facts and reasons for detention, and a probable cause hearing within a short period of time.

New Jersey v. T.L.O. (1985)

The US Supreme Court held that students in public schools have a constitutional right to privacy under the Fourth Amendment.
The Court stated that school officials are bound by some constitutional restrictions, but also have a responsibility to maintain the discipline necessary for education.
The Court adopted a lower "reasonable ground" standard for school officials to conduct searches in the school setting.

Roper v. Simmons (2005)

The US Supreme Court ruled that executing a person less than 18 years of age is unconstitutional.
The Court relied on scientific knowledge and sociological research to substantiate that adolescent brain development and environmental circumstances are substantial factors to be considered in determining the capacity of persons less than 18 years of age to possess appropriate decision-making skills and to exercise reasonable judgment.

Missouri Juvenile Court System

The statutorily defined purpose of the Missouri Juvenile Court system is to facilitate the care, protection, and discipline of children.
The Juvenile Court is to provide care, guidance, and control that conduces to the child's welfare and the best interests of the state.
The Juvenile Court has to balance the interests of the juvenile with the interests of the state in the context of providing services to the juvenile while also ensuring the protection of the community.

Rehabilitative Approach

The Missouri Juvenile Justice system operates with a belief system based on rehabilitation, with a view toward the young offender as a developing person who is amenable to treatment and potentially influenced to adopt a non-offending, productive lifestyle.

Guiding Principles for Case Management Activities

Offender accountability: Juvenile offenders should be held accountable for their actions in a timely and appropriate manner.
Restoring the victim: Juvenile offenders should be guided to restore the victim as part of the juvenile justice process.
Competency development: Juvenile offenders should develop basic competencies such as anger management, appropriate responses to authority, empathy for others, educational achievement, and vocational skills.
Strength-based services: Juvenile offenders should be provided with services that focus on their strengths and positive assets to help move them to appropriate behavior.

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Description

Learn about the history of the Juvenile Court system and its guiding principles. Understand critical terms and the legal framework of the juvenile justice system in Missouri.