Juvenile Laws at Japan
Japan's juvenile justice system is designed to balance accountability with rehabilitation, emphasizing the protection and development of minors. Recent legal reforms have updated the framework to address contemporary challenges.
⚖️ Legal Framework
Juvenile Act (Act No. 168 of 1948): This Act governs the treatment of juveniles in Japan, aiming to promote their healthy development and correct personality flaws through protective measures and special procedures for criminal cases.
Revisions Effective April 2022: Amendments to the Juvenile Act and the Civil Code lowered the age of adulthood from 20 to 18. Consequently, individuals aged 18 and 19 are now categorized as "specified juveniles," facing stricter penalties for certain offenses, and their real names can be publicly disclosed post-indictment.
🧒 Age of Criminal Responsibility
Under 14 Years:Children under 14 are generally not held criminally responsible. However, if a child under 14 commits a crime, the family court may intervene if there's a likelihood of future delinquency.
14 to 17 Years:Juveniles in this age group are subject to the Juvenile Act, which emphasizes rehabilitation. Serious cases may be transferred to public prosecutors.
18 and 19 Years:Following legal revisions, 18- and 19-year-olds are treated more like adults, facing stricter penalties for certain crimes, and their identities can be publicly disclosed after indictment.
🏛️ Juvenile Justice Procedures
Family Court Handles cases involving juveniles, focusing on rehabilitation. For serious offenses, cases may be referred to public prosecutor.
Juvenile Training Schools Facilities where juveniles receive correctional education. Types include primary, middle, special, and medical juvenile training school.
🛑 Recent Reforms
*Lowering Age of Adulthood: Effective April 1, 2022, the legal age of adulthood was reduced to 18, granting new legal rights and responsibilities to 18- and 19-year-olds, including entering contracts and marriage without parental conset.
*Stricter Penalties and Public Disclosure: The Juvenile Act revisions allow for stricter penalties for 18- and 19-year-olds and permit the media to report their names after indictment, aiming to balance societal protection with the potential for rehabilitation.
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Japan's juvenile justice system continues to evolve, striving to protect society while offering opportunities for the rehabilitation and reintegration of young offendes.
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