Describes the current state of juvenile criminal justice programs and the historical and legal precedents that created it. The current system rests on concepts of confidentiality, due process, and alternatives to jail. Many states are considering modifying aspects of these because of the increase in juvenile crime. (MJP)

Presents a lesson plan that teaches students to analyze the goals and effectiveness of the juvenile justice system. Instructional materials include handouts describing three criminal situations involving teenagers and copies of an article on the juvenile justice system. Activities include small group discussions followed by a class discussion.…

Presents a lesson plan that requires students to analyze an upcoming Supreme Court case concerning the constitutional rights of a convicted offender. Student handouts include a case study worksheet and an overview of the case. Students complete the worksheet, conduct small group discussions, and arrive at their own decisions. (MJP)

Discusses the recent legislative, judicial, and executive efforts to advance the interests of the crime victim in the criminal process. These include victim impact statements, remuneration from felons, and victims' service agencies. National efforts include a proposed amendment to the Constitution supporting victims' rights. (MJP)

Reviews the protections afforded by the Constitution for defendants in criminal trials. These include the right to a jury trial (in cases of possible incarceration), an impartial jury, and the requirement of a unanimous verdict. Defends the use of plea bargaining as essential to an efficient criminal justice system. (MJP)

Reviews the creation and accomplishments of the 1984 Comprehensive Crime Control Act. The legislation established the United States Sentencing Commission that works to eliminate unwarranted disparities in sentencing and has abolished parole at the federal level. Discusses how the guidelines work. (MJP)

Outlines a role play that highlights the potential conflict between freedom of the press and the rights of defendants and victims. Students assume the roles of representative characters (police chief, newspaper editor) in a small town where a sensational murder has occurred. They also conduct a class discussion. (MJP)

Presents seven brief articles on legal issues concerning young people. Addresses such topics as curfews, teen smoking, dress codes, and child labor. Some articles are student-written while others profile student activity. Student authors include Mike Michaud, Danny Rosen, Carrie Kendrick, and William Hansen. (MJP)

Examines the legal and moral issues, controversies, and unique trial procedures involved with the death penalty. Discusses the 1972 landmark Supreme Court decision that resulted in many states abolishing this punishment, only to reintroduce it later with different provisions. Reviews the controversial case of Sam Sheppard. (MJP)

Considers the broad range of jobs in law enforcement, the courts, and the correctional systems. Discusses the various paths of education and training leading to these jobs, the most preeminent being law school. Considers opportunities in growing fields such as international criminal law. (MJP)

Provides accompanying learning activities for each of the articles in the same issue. The brief articles address a number of legal issues concerning young people including dress codes, teen smoking, curfews, restricted areas (such as the mall), and child labor. Includes a law term crossword puzzle. (MJP)