Creating an Adolescent Criminal Class: Juvenile Court Jurisdiction over Status Offenders

Authors

Soma R. Kedia

Abstract

The article argues that status offenders, who commit non-criminal offenses such as truancy or running away, are unfairly treated similarly to juvenile delinquents in the court system. This treatment often leads to detention in the same facilities as delinquents, which can exacerbate behavioral issues and increase the likelihood of future criminal behavior. The author advocates for a distinct approach to handling status offenders, emphasizing the need for social services and alternative programs tailored to their specific needs rather than punitive measures.

Disciplines

Courts | Criminal Law | Criminal Procedure | Jurisdiction | Law | Legislation

Recommended Citation

Soma R. Kedia, Creating an Adolescent Criminal Class: Juvenile Court Jurisdiction over Status Offenders, 5 Cardozo Pub. L. Pol’y & Ethics J. 543 (2007).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cplpej/vol5/iss3/2