My experience at the Juvenile Court by Michelle :D Saturday, July 14, 2007
Hey guys! I find the trip to court enriching. we saw many juveniles being charged and surprisingly, we found out a lot of things. we were shocked and froze when the court was in session. it may seem dumb but Magistrate Wong is very fierce and scary. I guess she wanted to discourage them from committing annother crime by being firm and angry towards them. There are many different factors that contribute to juvenile delinquency, like family and peer pressure. Most of the cases are usually theft, rioting, carnal connection and smoking. I think its appalling when you see the statistics. I used to wonder why those juveniles are so foolish. They knew the consequences but they do not want to turn over a new leaf. In fact, its not easy to quit and you need a lot of determination to do it.
Many people think that going to court is going to jail. But the juvenile court does not do that. They want to reform you and make sure that you are able to fit into society and they are being very lenient by not keeping a criminal record if you're under 16. Lets take smoking as an example. They charged you $30 for the first 3 fines and they'll only charge you on your 4th offence. Many teenagers do not see this as a big deal as $30 dollars is peanuts to them. They can afford it. However, what the court wants to do is to teach them a lesson and discourage them. From my point of view, i think the fine should be more expensive and the teenagers have to pay it themselves as its usually the parents who are "fined" and "punished for their child's act".
Do you know that even if you're holding a cigarette, even though you're not smoking, it is an offence!
Many of the families were crying after the order was made and some parents felt so disappointed with their children as they did not expect them to commit such a serious offence. Many juveniles will make an effort to change but there are some who refuse to change and even want to go back to their old ways. my advice? DON'T. one foolish act will ruin everything. I know it is difficult to change but choose your friends right and they will be the ones there to help you, along with your family.
We, as young people, have such a bright future ahead of us. Why waste our time cmmitting such crimes and getting into trouble with the law? We should continue to strive hard for a future! Just 5 minutes of "fun", could ruin your life and cause you a lifetime of regrets! I would definitely choose a bright future over 5minutes of fun and i am sure that you want it too! Thus, lets not fall into such a terrible situation by not commiting any crime!
Smile :D cheers. stay happy guys. many hugs&kisses.
