What are the differences between juvenile and adult sentencing guidelines?

In California, there are distinct differences between the sentencing guidelines of juvenile and adult criminals. Juvenile sentencing begins with a recommendation for probation, then a juvenile court judge can decide on any number of alternatives to incarceration, including informal probation, community service, or placement in a residential facility. The court may also require the juvenile to pay restitution to the victim or other persons harmed as a result of the crime. On the other hand, adult sentencing typically involves imprisonment. Depending on the severity of the crime, adults can be sentenced to prison, jail, or probation. In some cases, an offender may be eligible for parole or a reduced sentence based on good behavior or other criteria. When a juvenile is sentenced as an adult, the punishment is much more serious. Adult sentences often involve lengthier terms and may include added restrictions such as a lifetime ban from owning a firearm. Additionally, the stigma of a criminal record can follow an adult offender for the rest of their life. From the perspective of the criminal justice system, juvenile offenders are viewed as rehabilitative whereas adult offenders are viewed as punitive. The purpose of juvenile sentencing is to deter future criminal behavior while also helping the offender to become productive members of society. Adult sentencing tends to focus more heavily on retribution and deterrence, with less emphasis on rehabilitation.

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What are the differences between juvenile and adult sentencing guidelines?

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