Thomas A Jacobs – författare

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.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.

Encourage teens to recognize the importance of voting and making their voices heard in the democratic process with this timely book focused on Supreme Court decisions that came down to a single vote. Chapters examine key Supreme Court rulings and explore how these cases have affected the lives and rights of U.S. citizens—especially teens. Using a straightforward, impartial tone, the authors take a close look at often controversial cases and at the history of voting in the United States. The emphasis is involvement in local and national elections as well as other ways to be an engaged citizen. With an accompanying digital discussion guide, the book is a perfect choice for teachers and youth leaders to offer teens in the upcoming 2016 presidential election cycle.

Accessible, straightforward answers to more than 100 questions about teens’ legal rights and responsibilities.“Can I be prosecuted for comments I make online?” “What are my rights as an undocumented teen?” “When can I get a tattoo?” These questions—and many more—are asked and answered in What Are My Rights? Teens often have questions about the justice system but don’t always know where to turn for answers. This book provides those answers, exploring more than 100 legal questions pertaining specifically to teens. This revised and updated fourth edition includes fresh facts, updated statistics, and brand-new questions and answers. Using a straightforward tone and drawing on examples from real-life juvenile court cases, Judge Tom Jacobs helps readers learn about the laws that affect them, appreciate their legal rights, and consider their responsibilities.Teens & the Law SeriesThe Teens & the Law series familiarizes young readers with our legal system, dispels myths and mysteries, and shows that the law is by and for the people—including teens. The books cover numerous important legal issues pertaining to young people, such as the rights of minors; the rights to privacy and freedom of expression; the rights of gay and lesbian students; the rights of students with disabilities; the rights of parents, schools, and workplaces; the voting and political system; abortion; living wills; traffic laws; curfews; probation; and juvenile versus adult court. Crimes discussed include forgery, obscene conduct, defamation, vandalism, gang-related crimes, gambling, theft, underage drinking, drug and weapon possession, hacking, cyberbullying, sexual harassment, rape, hate crimes, arson, threats, and violence. Each book offers discussion points, tips and advice, detailed resources, emergency hotlines, and probing questions for further reflection.