They Broke the Law―You Be the Judge: True Cases of Teen Crime (Teens and the Law)

Teens often hear about other teens who get into trouble with the law. But they€re seldom asked what they think should happen next and why. A unique introduction to the juvenile justice system, They Broke the Law€"You Be the Judge: True Cases of Teen Crime invites teens to preside over a variety of real-life cases. They meet Adam, who makes a threat in school; Erica, who assaults another student and uses marijuana; and more young people who commit crimes and are caught. Like a judge, readers learn each teen€s background, the relevant facts, and the sentencing options available. After deciding on a sentence, they find out what really happened€"and where each offender is today. Along the way, readers learn Judge Jacobs€ concerns about each case, reflect on probing questions, and discover that they can€t jump to conclusions. Teens (and teachers) who want more can find role-playing ideas and scenarios related to the stories available as free downloads here on the Free Spirit Web site. Thought-provoking and eye-opening, this book is for all teens who want to know more about the juvenile justice system and the laws that pertain to them and their peers.