Juvenile defense representatives and the lawyer-juvenile relationship from the perspective of youth
Subtitle: a pilot study.
Published: 2004
Language: eng
Number of pages: 129
Subjects: Juvenile delinquents -- Relations with lawyers.; Attorney and client.; Juvenile delinquents -- Attitudes.
Description: Despite the critical role of lawyers in North American youth justice proceedings, there has been little empirical investigation into the lawyer-juvenile relationship, especially from the perspective of young clients. The present study explored the factors affecting youths' appraisals of juvenile defense representatives. Fifty-three young offenders were interviewed regarding their perceptions and evaluations of their experiences with defense lawyers and lawyer-client interactions. Hypotheses were made surrounding the effects of perceived fairness and understanding about lawyers on youths' satisfaction with lawyers and their services. Questions were raised regarding other potentially influential variables. Results indicated that perceived fairness and various lawyer-client interpersonal issues were related to participants' satisfaction with their lawyers. Young people's appraisals were not related to their level of understanding about lawyers, nor to any other variables explored. Findings are discussed in terms of theoretical and practical implications, and directions for future research are outlined.
Notes: Adviser:  Michele Peterson-Badali.

Thesis (M.A.)--University of Toronto, 2004.

Electronic version licensed for access by U. of T. users.

Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 43-03, page: 0992.

MICR copy on microfiche (2 microfiches).