Initiating the Transfer to CC Discussion

Abstract

Chapter 1 has four objectives. The first objective is to set a foundation for what is at stake in transferring juvenile offenders to criminal court (CC). The second is to address an anti-transfer crowd (ATC)1 criticism that transfer to CC exists in a theoretical vacuum, explained by something other than reason and logic. This chapter begins to provide a theoretical explanation for and defense of transfer to CC, revealing its logic and reason. This is the major focus of the work. The third objective is to explain that, although a good deal of the purpose of and benefits derived from transfer cannot be “proved” by social science research, it does not mean the purpose and benefits lack tangible and discernable outcomes that help maintain juvenile court's (JC's) existence. The fourth and final objective of this chapter is to lay out the organization and overall mission of the book.