Sentencing Youth to Life in Prison: Justice Denied

This book examines the issue of juvenile life without parole (LWOP) sentences and calls attention to both sides of the debate. It features in-depth interviews with juvenile lifers and other involved parties, providing a balanced approach to the impact of Supreme Court decisions and the controversy related to review and resentencing of juvenile lifers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 156 pages
Publication date: 08 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Juvenile life without parole (LWOP) sentences have been a controversial topic in the criminal justice system for many years. While some argue that these sentences are necessary to protect society from dangerous criminals, others believe that they are cruel and inhumane, and that they do not provide young people with the opportunity to reform and become productive members of society. This book examines the issue of juvenile life without parole (LWOP) sentences in its entirety and calls attention to both sides of the debate.

Suitable for scholars and practitioners interested in a balanced approach to the impact of important Supreme Court decisions and the controversy related to review and resentencing of juvenile lifers, this book provides a comprehensive analysis of the issue. The first book to feature in-depth interviews with juvenile lifers as well as other involved parties, such as prosecutors, politicians, advocates, and victims and their families, this book offers a unique perspective on the issue.

Juvenile lifers are individuals who have been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for crimes they committed as minors. These sentences have been controversial for many reasons, including the fact that young people are still developing and may be able to reform and become productive members of society. Additionally, there is a significant risk of error in the criminal justice system, and young people may be sentenced to LWOP based on inaccurate information or biased testimony.

One of the main arguments against juvenile life without parole (LWOP) sentences is that they are cruel and inhumane. These sentences deny young people the opportunity to grow and change, and they can have a devastating impact on their lives and families. Many juvenile lifers spend decades in prison, and they may never have the chance to re-enter society as healthy and productive individuals. Additionally, these sentences can create a cycle of violence, as young people who are released from prison may be more likely to commit crimes in order to survive.

On the other hand, some argue that juvenile life without parole (LWOP) sentences are necessary to protect society from dangerous criminals. These sentences serve as a deterrent to other young people who may be considering committing crimes, and they ensure that those who commit serious crimes will face serious consequences. Additionally, some argue that juvenile lifers are more likely to re-offend than adults, and that they need to be separated from the general population to prevent harm to themselves and others.

Despite these arguments, there is a growing movement to reform the juvenile justice system and reduce the use of juvenile life without parole (LWOP) sentences. Many states have passed laws that limit the use of LWOP sentences, and some have even eliminated them altogether. Additionally, there is a growing body of research that suggests that young people are more likely to reform and become productive members of society when they are provided with appropriate support and resources.

In conclusion, the issue of juvenile life without parole (LWOP) sentences is complex and multifaceted. While some argue that these sentences are necessary to protect society from dangerous criminals, others believe that they are cruel and inhumane, and that they do not provide young people with the opportunity to reform and become productive members of society. This book examines the issue of juvenile life without parole (LWOP) sentences in its entirety and calls attention to both sides of the debate. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the issue, this book is an invaluable resource for scholars and practitioners interested in a balanced approach to the impact of important Supreme Court decisions and the controversy related to review and resentencing of juvenile lifers.

Weight: 306g
Dimension: 175 x 253 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032064420