A Last Reflection Behind Bars: Rethinking Life Sentences for Children in the United States

Legal scholars argue that accountability and rehabilitation are not mutually exclusive. A child can be held responsible while still being afforded the opportunity to demonstrate growth over time.

Environmental and Socioeconomic Context
Advocates often highlight the backgrounds of juveniles serving life sentences. Research cited by groups such as Human Rights Watch and the Equal Justice Initiative indicates that many of these individuals experienced:

Early exposure to violence

Childhood trauma or abuse