Determinants of Public Opinion Toward Juvenile Waiver Decisions

This study examines the determinants of public opinion toward three types of juvenile crimes deemed suitable for trial in criminal court. The public overwhelmingly supports juvenile waivers, especially for juveniles charged with violent crimes. However, such an overall consensus in public opinion can be a result of an inadequate survey design. The public needs to be given more contextual information regarding juvenile offenses and possible consequences resulting from transferring juveniles to the adult system.