Assignment:
Legal definitions of juvenile status vary widely in the United States. Taking into account factors that may impact levels of maturity and culpability, propose a chronological age that you believe should differentiate juvenile offenders from adult offenders. Give reasons for proposing your chosen age of majority. Should this age of majority vary depending on the crime committed? Defend your view with examples.
Factors impacting levels of maturity in youths and their significance while dealing with juvenile offenders.
An assessment of the factors affecting maturity in youths by court officials - how it can be done equitably.
Should age and maturity level play a role in response to juvenile crime? Do you believe that age and maturity levels aggravate or mitigate circumstances when responding to juvenile crime?
Should the response be based solely on the offense committed by a juvenile delinquent? Explain your answer with examples.