It looks as if New Jersey is taking steps to end the very trauma INsensitive, trauma-UNaware practice of adjudicating crimes of youth 14 and under in criminal court. Instead, treatment will become the focus. They are definitely on the right track. Now, if they could just extend the age range to align with what science and social science tells us...
"New Jersey is one of 21 states that directs its juvenile courts to focus on rehabilitation, using language from the Balanced and Restorative Justice movement. The movement focuses on three primary interests: public safety, accountability to victims and the community as well as developing skills in offenders so they can have productive and law-abiding lives.
The bill takes effect seven months from signing. Some juvenile justice organizations are hoping New Jersey’s reforms will prompt other states to follow."
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