List at least five similarities OR five differences between the adult and juvenile justice system
Similarities between the adult and juvenile justice system:
1. Due process: Both systems provide individuals with certain constitutional rights, such as the right to an attorney, the right to a fair and impartial trial, and protection against self-incrimination.
2. Punitive measures: Both systems involve a range of possible consequences, including community service, probation, and incarceration, depending on the severity of the offense.
3. Focus on rehabilitation: While the primary goal of the adult justice system is often seen as punishment, both systems aim to rehabilitate offenders and prevent future criminal behavior.
4. Adjudication process: Both systems follow a similar process that involves arrest, detention, hearings, and the determination of guilt or innocence by a judge or jury.
5. Appeal process: Both systems allow for appeals to higher courts to argue errors of law or procedure that may have occurred during the trial or sentencing.
Differences between the adult and juvenile justice system:
1. Age of jurisdiction: The most significant difference is that the juvenile justice system exclusively deals with offenders under a certain age limit, usually between 16 and 18, while the adult justice system handles individuals above that age limit.
2. Emphasis on rehabilitation: While rehabilitation is a goal common to both systems, the juvenile justice system places greater emphasis on it due to the belief that young offenders have a higher potential for change and development.
3. Sentencing structure: The adult justice system often employs fixed guidelines and predetermined sentences based on the severity of the crime, whereas the juvenile justice system allows for more discretion and individualized treatment plans.
4. Confidentiality: The juvenile justice system typically operates under a greater level of privacy and confidentiality to protect the identity of young offenders, while adult proceedings are generally more public.
5. Record expungement: In many jurisdictions, the juvenile justice system provides the opportunity for certain offenses committed by juveniles to be sealed or expunged, allowing young offenders to have a fresh start once they turn 18. This option is less common in the adult justice system.