A merger would eliminate the differential treatment; the tendency of officials to want “to set an example” of the almost adult juvenile; and the difficulty of knowing the offender’s true age, which is often misrepresented in order to be handled in one system over the other (Hirschi & Gottfredson, 1993; Dawson, 1990). Merging the two systems would have the benefit of “providing for continuity of services”. At present, juvenile records are sealed so it is difficult to determine if the juvenile is headed toward serious problems. Furthermore, the juvenile, upon reaching the age of majority, has a clean slate, regardless of past record. But, even if the record were disclosed, there would be a tendency to discount the information in making a decision when viewing the individual as an adult (Roth, 1997; Dawson …show more content…
A possible approach would be a system of graduated sanctions, whereby the offenders are matched to appropriate punishments and treatments based on history and needs of the individual. This approach keeps in mind the founding philosophy of the juvenile justice system and can adequately address the present day offenders by balancing rehabilitation and punishment (Jenson & Howard,