Resource Library
New to the Resource Library?
Learn how to navigate, search, and use our resources effectively.
Brief of Advocates for Child Victims of Domestic Violence as Amici Curiae in Support of Petitioner
This brief argues that Mr. Andrus remains on death row due to a state court ignoring evidence of his severe childhood trauma. It contends this contradicts prior Supreme Court rulings and developmental psychology.
Brief of Eight Million Stories and Lone Star Justice Alliance in Support of Petitioner
The brief argues the state court defied the Supreme Court by ignoring significant new evidence. It asserts this evidence, detailing the defendant's difficult childhood, would have prevented a death sentence.
Amicus Curiae Brief for Children’s Defense Fund, et al., in Support of Petitioner
This brief argues the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals failed to properly reconsider a death row inmate's case. It asserts the court ignored evidence of childhood trauma, which could have changed a juror's sentencing decision.
Brief of National Alliance on Mental Illness and National Association of Social Workers as Amici Curiae Supporting Petitioner
This brief argues the lower court wrongly dismissed evidence of Mr. Andrus's severe childhood trauma and mental illness. It asserts this powerful mitigating evidence could have changed a juror's view of his moral culpability.
Brief of Amicus Curiae Robert Earl Hawkins in Support of John Antonio Poole
This brief argues mandatory life without parole for those under 21 is unconstitutional. It asserts young adults share the same developmental characteristics that led the Supreme Court to ban such sentences for juveniles.
Rethinking Concepts and Categories for Understanding the Neurodevelopmental Effects of Childhood Adversity
This article examines current frameworks for understanding how early childhood adversity affects brain development. It proposes a new approach to better understand these mechanisms and identify targets for future interventions.
Adolescent Brain Development and Contextual Influences: a Decade in Review
Recent research has shifted the view of adolescence from problematic to a period of opportunity and creativity. Studies highlight how the adolescent brain is uniquely suited for exploration, learning, and forging social bonds.
Making the "C-ACE" for a Culturally-informed Adverse Childhood Experiences Framework to Understand the Pervasive Mental Health Impact of Racism on Black Youth
Many youth, especially Black youth, experience traumatic events. Racism and racial discrimination are significant stressors. A new model suggests racism is an adverse childhood experience (ACE) that impacts Black youth's mental health.
Responsible Use of Open-Access Developmental Data: the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (abcd) Study
This article outlines best practices for using open-access developmental data responsibly. It emphasizes considering social context, developmental processes, and data limitations when conducting research.
The Law, the Science, and the Logic of Ending the Teenage Death Penalty
The Eighth Amendment requires criminal punishment to fit the crime and offender, serving legitimate goals like retribution and deterrence. Its interpretation evolves with societal standards of decency.
Black Girls and the Pipeline from Sexual Abuse to Sexual Exploitation to Prison
This chapter explores how sexual abuse can lead Black girls into a "pipeline" from exploitation to prison. It examines the unique racial and gender challenges they face, focusing on how schools and society often fail to support them.
“Some Mother's Child Has Gone Astray”: Neuroscientific Approaches to a Therapeutic Jurisprudence Model of Juvenile Sentencing
Juvenile brains are not fully developed by age 18, raising questions about sentencing. This evidence conflicts with public pressure for harsh punishments, underscoring a need for legal reform prioritizing psychological well-being.
Matter of C. L. E.
People v. Bennett
The court vacated a juvenile life sentence, finding the defendant's childhood trauma, brain development, and rehabilitation progress weighed against a finding of permanent incorrigibility.
How Trauma May Magnify Risk of Involuntary and False Confessions Among Adolescents
Most youth in the U.S. juvenile justice system have experienced trauma and often have PTSD. Research suggests a link between trauma exposure and false confessions, especially for adolescents who are more vulnerable.