Miranda and Teens
This activity explores the Supreme Court decision in J.D.B. v. North Carolina. In this case, the Supreme Court was asked to decide if the age of a child subjected to police questioning is also relevant to custody determinations spelled by the Miranda warnings. Participants will analyze the the Supreme Court case and apply it to a fictional scenario involving a high school student and shoplifting.
About these Resources
- Analyze the facts and case summary for J.D.B. v. North Carolina.
- Apply the case to a fictional teen scenario.
- Use critical thinking skills and share reflections on the discussion questions.
- Use the worksheet and answer key to compare the fictional scenario to J.D.B. v. North Carolina.
How to Use These Resources
These resources are designed to use in the classroom, courtroom or for individual learning. Follow the sequence below to complete the activity.
In the Classroom or Courtroom
- Participants prepare presentations of the facts and case summary.
- Read the fictional teen scenario and apply J.D.B. v. North Carolina to it.
- Use critical thinking skills and share reflections on the discussion questions.
- Use the worksheet and answer key to determine if the requirements that would entitle the two boys to a Miranda warning were met.
DISCLAIMER: These resources are created by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts for educational purposes only. They may not reflect the current state of the law, and are not intended to provide legal advice, guidance on litigation, or commentary on any pending case or legislation.