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 here on the Free Spirit Web site. 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.

"This lively, original book is likely to be a milestone in America's ongoing fascination with the drama of trials and justice." - Fred Graham, former chief anchor Court TV Have you ever had the chance to decide the fate of another person? What would you do? In the real-life cases presented to you in this book, you will be the judge and the jury - making the ultimate decision between right and wrong. Can you convict an abused woman who kills her husband because she is afraid he will beat her again? What about a man who helps his best friend commit suicide to avoid a painful death? Would you allow a feeding tube to be removed from a 92-year-old coma victim so she can die peacefully? Put yourself in the place of the judge or one of the jurors as you read the details of each case. Many of these trials raise questions that go beyond the law to the heart of one's own moral code. At the end of each case, after rendering your own verdict, you can read on to find out what really happened. THE CASE IS NOW IN YOUR HANDS.

Provides information to help the reader understand laws, recognize responsibilities, and appreciate rights especially in relation to parents, school, job, and personal matters.

Describes ethical problems from everyday Jewish life and supplies pertinent material for solving them according to Jewish law.

Describes actual cases for the reader to decide the results at the trial and on appeal.