1. Course Introduction Coun 150 – Laws Relating to Children Richard M. Cartier Class 1

2. About the Course This course presents an overview of traditional legal doctrines concerning minors in the home, in the school, and in the juvenile justice system, with an emphasis on applying traditional doctrines to current issues. The goal is to encourage your commitment to make a difference.

3. Course syllabus Objectives Assignments Grading 2 quizzes & a cumulative exam Compilation paper Webpage: http://CommonGroundJustice.comhttp://CommonGroundJustice.com E-mail: rcartier@csufresno.edu Phone: 439-7606rcartier@csufresno.edu

4. Why do we have laws? To protect individual liberties To create the kind of society we want  Consider the following:  Seat belts  School prayer; “under God”

5. Children and the Law – competing views The law should respect children because they are human beings with rights. The law should protect children because they are vulnerable and weak. /Children are not specifically mentioned in the Constitution. /Should they be?

6. Who is a child? Age of Majority Now age 18 for most purposes California -- March 4, 1972 /What is the legal distinction between adults and children?

7. Who speaks for the child? Traditionally, parents are primarily responsible for the care and rearing of their children. The state will intervene in certain instances to ensure adequate parenting. / What voice should the child have?

8. Some recent research Census data --population / racial and ethnic stats / life expectancy Poverty Divorce Death rates – stats / homicide, suicide, and fire-arm related deaths  Other factors affecting children...

9. California Specific Material Cases & Codes Also available: When You Turn 18 Seniors & the Law http://www.CommonGroundJustice.com -- Links