What is the difference between juvenile and adult court?

In the state of Washington, the legal process for juveniles and adults is handled differently due to the different needs of each group. Juvenile court handles cases which involve minors who are under the age of eighteen and who are accused of a criminal offense. Cases handled in juvenile court are less formal than those in adult court. Instead of a jury, a Judge will decide the outcome of the case. In addition, the purpose of juvenile court is to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. It is meant to be a corrective rather than a punitive measure. Juveniles are also given more leniency and Protection from the court. The outcome of a juvenile case is not usually as serious as a case in adult court and often includes a form of probation or counseling. On the other hand, adult court handles cases involving individuals who are eighteen or older accused of a criminal offense. It follows more traditional legal proceedings with a jury and the accused can be sentenced to jail or prison. Adult court is more punitive and focuses on punishment instead of rehabilitation. Overall, the primary difference between juvenile and adult court in the state of Washington is the approach used in each one. Juvenile court is focused on rehabilitation and leniency and adult court focuses on punishment. Both courts are designed to uphold the law and keep the public safe.

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What is the difference between juvenile and adult court?

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