The Battle of the Narrative in Jones v. Mississippi: Consideration of Youth "In Name Only"
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Mercer Law Review
Abstract
This article examines the complex dynamics of juvenile sentencing in the United States, with a focus on the 2021 Supreme Court case Jones v. Mississippi. The decision in this case has profound implications for how youth influences sentencing outcomes. The article explores the historical and evolving definitions of “youth” within the legal system, emphasizing the tension between rehabilitation and punishment. It highlights the disparities in how juvenile offenders are treated across different states, often resulting in unequal justice outcomes. By analyzing the majority and dissenting opinions in Jones, the article underscores the critical role that narratives—both macro and micro—play in shaping judicial decisions. The article also discusses the impact of external factors such as media and socio-economic status on these narratives. Ultimately, the article calls for a more nuanced and equitable approach to juvenile justice that truly considers the unique circumstances and developmental stages of young offenders.
First Page
1129
Last Page
1154
Publication Date
2023
Recommended Citation
Stevie Leahy, The Battle of the Narrative in Jones v. Mississippi: Consideration of Youth "In Name Only", 74 Mercer L. Rev. 1129 (2023).
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License