Juvenile law is separate to address the distinct needs of young offenders, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment. "In re Gault" (1967) granted juveniles due process rights. Charging M.S.A. as an adult depends on the circumstances, with rehabilitation as a priority.
Juvenile law is separated from the adult criminal justice system due to the recognition that young offenders have distinct needs and capacities for rehabilitation. The primary goals in the juvenile justice system are focused on rehabilitation and intervention to address underlying issues contributing to delinquency, rather than punishment. Differences between the juvenile and adult justice systems include the terminology used, the emphasis on rehabilitation, and the confidentiality of juvenile records.
An important court decision is "In re Gault" (1967), which granted juvenile defendants the right to due process, including the right to notice, counsel, confrontation, and protection against self-incrimination.
Regarding M.S.A.'s case, the decision to charge them as an adult should be based on the severity of the offense, the juvenile's history, and the potential for rehabilitation. If the court deems it appropriate, the sentence should align with rehabilitative measures rather than punitive ones, considering the unique goals of the juvenile justice system.