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Use of Marijuana: Effect on Brain Health: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Marijuana use is increasing, with growing potency in THC levels. Concerns exist about its effects on brain health, particularly in adolescents and young adults, and potential drug interactions.
Competencies for Training Juvenile Services on Justice Involved Youth with Traumatic Brain Injury
Youth in juvenile correction facilities have high rates of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Staff training is crucial for identifying TBI, improving outcomes, and ensuring youth receive necessary care, but current training is often inadequate.
Justice for Emerging Adults after Jones: the Rapidly Developing Use of Neuroscience to Extend Eighth Amendment Miller Protections to Defendants Ages 18 and Older
This article examines how neuroscience is used to argue against the death penalty and mandatory life without parole for emerging adults (ages 18 to early 20s).
Lonely Too Long: Redefining and Reforming Juvenile Solitary Confinement
Kalief Browder's story highlights the devastating impact of solitary confinement, especially on young individuals.
Should the Science of Adolescent Brain Development Inform Public Policy?
Adolescence brings significant brain changes impacting structure and function, continuing longer than previously thought. These changes affect self-control, emotional regulation, and how the brain responds to rewards.
Addington v. Texas
The Supreme Court ruled in 1979 that involuntary commitment requires clear evidence of danger to self or others. This balances personal freedom with public safety concerns.
Olmstead v. L.C.
The Court ruled that unjust institutionalization of disabled individuals, including those with substance use disorders, violates their rights. It mandated more community-based treatment options.
O’Connor v. Donaldson
The Court ruled it unconstitutional to involuntarily commit non-dangerous individuals capable of self-care. This principle applies to debates on addiction confinement.
Kortlever v. Whatcom County
The court approved a settlement requiring jails to provide medication for opioid use disorder (MMOUD). Denying it likely violated disability and cruel and unusual punishment protections.
Jacobson v. United States
The Court held that entrapment requires the government to prove the defendant was already willing to commit the crime, not merely offered an opportunity.
United States v. Russell
The Court upheld a drug conviction where a DEA agent supplied a precursor chemical. The defendant's existing intent to commit the crime was the deciding factor.
Conant v. Walters
Physicians can discuss and recommend medical marijuana to qualified patients under the First Amendment, without federal interference, the Ninth Circuit ruled.
Sherman v. United States
The Court held entrapment is a defense if government inducement caused a defendant with addiction to commit a crime they wouldn't otherwise.
Burrage v. United States
The Court ruled that a drug must be the direct cause of death for a sentencing enhancement. It cannot be merely a contributing factor.
The Vicious Cycle: Problematic Family Relations, Substance Abuse, and Crime in Adolescence: A Narrative Review
Adolescence is a time of high vulnerability where many physical, behavioral, and cognitive changes occur, often leading to risky behaviors. These actions can be influenced by individual, family, and environmental factors.