They Broke the Law—You Be the Judge: True Cases of Teen Crime (Teens and the Law)
Description
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.
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.
Praise for They Broke the Law—You Be the Judge: True Cases of Teen Crime (Teens and the Law)
“A refreshing and completely unique resource.”—Youthworker
ALA/YALSA “Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults”, Selected
ForeWord Book of the Year Awards Finalist, ForeWord Magazine
“A refreshing and completely unique resource.”
— Youthworker
“Unusual and thought-provoking . . . with the proliferation of courtroom shows on television, this book gives young people a more realistic look at the legal system designed for them.”
— School Library Journal
“An excellent introduction of how juvenile justice works...great resource for classroom and group discussions.”
“Very relevant...will strike a chord with adolescent readers.”
— Children’s Literature
“Ideal for class discussion.... An excellent resource for mock trial preparation.”
— Voice of Youth Advocates