New law puts Washington at forefront in protecting youth rights

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Questions and Answers

What is the main purpose of providing legal guidance to youth in the criminal legal system?

To minimize the need for legal representation

To ensure youth are punished for their actions

To make the criminal legal process more complicated

To increase compliance with law enforcement practices (correct)

What was the role of Rep. Jesse Johnson concerning ESHB 1140?

He opposed the bill in the legislature

He authored the MiChance Dunlap-Gittens ordinance

He was a senator advocating for the bill

He was the lead sponsor in the House (correct)

Which significant issue does ESHB 1140 address for young people?

Increased penalties for juvenile offenses

The right to legal representation during interrogations (correct)

Expanded youth detention facilities

Legal obligations for parents of juvenile offenders

What was one observed outcome of the Seattle and King County ordinances?

Greater clarity about rights for youths Signup and view all the answers

What tragic event is associated with the MiChance Dunlap-Gittens Youth Rights Ordinances?

The shooting of a young aspiring lawyer by police Signup and view all the answers

Which organization is NOT mentioned as supporting the state legislation?

Civil Rights Institute Signup and view all the answers

What significant step does Sean Goode say the legislation represents?

A big step towards youth rights and justice Signup and view all the answers

What model did the legislation build upon from California?

Mandated legal representation before interrogations Signup and view all the answers

What requirement does the new law impose on police officers regarding youth in custody?

Officers must connect youth with an attorney before interrogation. Signup and view all the answers

Why are youth particularly vulnerable when interacting with police?

They are likely to comply with demands without understanding. Signup and view all the answers

How does the law aim to improve racial equity within the legal system?

By ensuring that all youth have equal access to legal representation. Signup and view all the answers

What has research shown about youth waiving their Miranda rights?

Youth waive their rights at rates as high as 90 percent. Signup and view all the answers

What specific age group does the new law apply to?

Youth under 18. Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of the new law on youth consultations?

Consultation can occur in person or by phone. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the purposes of the new law regarding youth rights?

To ensure youth understand their constitutional rights. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

New Law in Washington State

Washington State is enacting a new law requiring law enforcement to connect youth under 18 with an attorney before conducting a custodial interrogation, detaining them based on probable cause of criminal activity, or requesting consent to a search.
The new law aims to address the vulnerability of youth in interactions with law enforcement, recognizing that they may not fully comprehend their rights or the consequences of waiving them.
Studies show that youth waive their Miranda rights at high rates, highlighting the need for legal representation to ensure their rights are protected.

Addressing Racial Disproportionalities

The law is intended to address racial disparities in the justice system. Black youth, Indigenous youth, and youth of color are disproportionately arrested, prosecuted, and incarcerated compared to white youth in Washington State.
Black youth are nearly four times more likely to be adjudicated than their representation in the population would suggest, highlighting a significant racial bias in the system.

Legal Advocacy and Public Safety

Legal guidance for youth is seen as crucial for ensuring fair treatment and better outcomes within the criminal legal system.
Youth who feel treated fairly by law enforcement are more likely to comply with the system, contributing to public safety and reducing conflicts.

Legislative Process and Support

The bill, ESHB 1140, passed the legislature on April 15 and is awaiting the governor's signature.
Rep. Jesse Johnson sponsored the bill in the House, while Sens. Jeannie Darneille and Manka Dhingra championed it in the Senate.
The law was also supported by numerous community groups, including Washington Black Lives Matter Alliance, Mockingbird Society, Community Passageways, Collective Justice, CHOOSE 180, Disability Rights Washington, and Creative Justice.

Inspiration from Other Jurisdictions

The law builds on similar efforts in California, which recently enacted a law requiring law enforcement to connect youth with an attorney before conducting custodial interrogations.
The bill is also inspired by the MiChance Dunlap-Gittens Youth Rights Ordinances, passed in Seattle and King County, which require legal consultation for youth in similar situations.
These ordinances were named after MiChance Dunlap-Gittens, a 17-year-old who was killed by police in a botched sting operation in 2017.

Impact of Existing Ordinances

The Seattle and King County ordinances have been implemented with no reported increase in arrests or bookings, while demonstrating the effectiveness of legal representation for youth.

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Description

Explore the newly enacted law in Washington State that mandates legal representation for youths under 18 during custodial interrogations. This law aims to ensure that young individuals comprehend their rights, noting the significant racial disparities affecting marginalized youth in the justice system.