Should teens be tried as adults? Most states have made it easier to try teens as adults, but is it fair to hold them to adult standards? (opinion).

YES The criminal justice system should give teenagers who commit heinous crimes the same punishments it bestows upon older offenders. Only then can justice truly be served and society protected from dangerous individuals.

At a time when teenagers are more predisposed to violence than in the past, there is a pressing need to counteract this trend. Trying juveniles as adults sends a clear message that crimes such as murder, rape, and assault will not be tolerated and that perpetrators must accept the consequences of their actions. The significantly harsher penalties for being tried as an adult serve as a deterrent to potential juvenile offenders.

Holding teenagers responsible for themselves is not unique to our justice system. Jewish youth are declared adults in the yes of their religion when they turn 13. Similarly, many Christian teenagers reaffirm their faith with confirmation vows in the early teen years. These ancient religions recognize that significant moral decisions can be made by teenagers, and so should our criminal justice system.

The argument that teenagers cannot comprehend the gravity of their crimes is an insult to the intelligence of young people. Teens have the maturity and judgment to make reasoned decisions. That's why many young people get driver's licenses before they turn 18. The same thinking skills that allow us to operate vehicles can also formulate criminal intent and differentiate right from wrong.

With more violent crime by teenagers well aware of their actions, it's clear that we should recognize juvenile offenders of violent crimes for what they are: dangerous criminals who happen to be teenagers.

--JULIA KAY, 17 North Potomac, Md.

NO Teens should not be tried as adults, because the laws aren't applied fairly, the results are horrible, and teenagers simply are not adults.

Trying teens who commit serious crimes as adults just makes matters worse. Many were physically, emotionally, and sexually abused. Some got involved in crime through their families and never had positive role models. Prosecutors more often charge youth of color as adults. And because most are from low-income families, they get public defenders, increasing their chances of getting convictions and harsh sentences.

In adult jails and prisons, teens have to grow up fast just to survive. They learn more about crime and get traumatized even more. Many get raped and abused, or commit suicide. As for rehabilitation, the few programs available in adult prisons are not designed for young people. When they get out, they'll have adult criminal records that aren't erased when they turn 18, as in the juvenile system. They can hardly get an education, let alone a decent job. Sometimes crime becomes the only life they know.

People need to realize that teenagers are not adults. Many youths don't consider the consequences of their actions. Teens act out of emotions and don't make long-range plans. Because we are different, society makes rules to "protect" us--from cars, credit cards, nightclubs, cigarettes, and alcohol. It's ridiculous to also make laws that do the exact opposite, treating us like adults when we need help the most. Teens who get caught up in serious crimes need rehabilitation. Treating them like adults practically guarantees they'll get worse.

--ROCO NIEVES, 18 Oakland, Calif