Expert: Michael Troy - 12/3/2004

Question
I have to write a papaer on juveniles being tried as adults and I wanted your opinion.  I have to write from the pro point of view.  Do you have any comments?

Answer
Hi Stephanie,

My own personal view is that juveniles should not be tried as adults.  Although the juvenile criminal system needs updating and improvement, treating young children who do not have the same rights as adults as being just as responsible as adults is not fair.

However, the typical arguments in favor of trying juveniles as adults is that if minors commit terrible adult crimes, they should have to face more serious consequences than the juvenile system allows.  Courts usually make a determination that the accused are individually mature enough to face the consequences of their actions and they should be held to the same standard as everyone else.

I hope this helps!
- Mike