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Simple English definitions for legal terms
In re Gault (1967)
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A quick definition of In re Gault (1967):
In re Gault (1967) is a court case that says kids who are accused of breaking the law have the right to be treated fairly. This means they have the right to know what they are being accused of, to have a lawyer to help them, and to not be forced to say anything that could get them in trouble. The court said that these rights are important because they help protect our freedom.
A more thorough explanation:
In re Gault, 387 U.S. 1 (1967), is a landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that established that juvenile criminal defendants have the right to Due Process protection under the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
The Court ruled that due process of law is the foundation of individual freedom and that juvenile defendants are entitled to the same legal protections as adult defendants. This includes the right to:
- Timely notice of criminal charges
- Confront and cross-examine witnesses
- Not testify against oneself
- Representation by a lawyer
For example, if a 16-year-old is accused of a crime, they have the right to know exactly what they are being accused of and to have a lawyer represent them in court. They also have the right to question any witnesses who testify against them.
The Court also held that written notice of the charges must be given to the child and their parents or guardian "at the earliest practicable time, and in any event sufficiently in advance of hearing to permit preparation." This means that the child and their family must be informed of the charges against them in writing and given enough time to prepare a defense.
Overall, the In re Gault case was a significant step forward in protecting the rights of juvenile defendants and ensuring that they receive fair treatment under the law.