Minutes for 6/25 meeting

Group Meeting
6/25- 6:00-7:30 pm
Graduate Lounge

Action Steps for Next Week:
Ø LaShunda: post link to NJ state legislator website on blog, post info/reports regarding general issues on blog (ASAP)
Ø Natalia: research and post at least 6 major/most relevant issues regarding NJ waivers and assign to research pairs (ASAP)
Ø Jessica: prepare agenda for next meeting (by Tuesday, July 1st)
Ø In pairs, research assigned topic and post findings on blog (before Tuesday, July 1st ). Come prepared to share findings on Tuesday, July 1st, 4:00-5:00pm.

Outcomes of Discussion:
1. Discussion of the NJ Statute
o 14 or older can be waived
o Prosecutor and judge can motion, judge has final say
o 14 or under can elect to tranfer courts (eg: if he/she feels trial is unfair because afforded more rights in criminal court)
o Waiver is not automatic
o Exception to statute if juvenile demonstrates possibility of “rehabilitation” (vague)

2. Possible Issues
o Prosecutor’s role in motioning for waiver
o Types of crimes that can make juvenile eligible for waiver
o Programs and services
o Redefining terms

3. What crimes should NOT be waived?
o Drugs
o Gang criminality
o Consensual sex
o Marijuana
o Unarmed theft
o Any 1st time offense other than rape or murder
o Any 2nd or 3rd time offense except rape or murder
o Use of drugs
o Gang affiliation
o 1st time for theft and/or drugs

Have a great week! Best of luck!
-Jess