Raised by the Courts: One Judge's Insight into Juvenile Justice

by Irene Sullivan

A veteran judge shares her vision for ending the vicious cycle of child abuse and crime. When 19-year-old Leo Boatman was convicted of the brutal murders of two college students, he told the judge, “I can’t offer an explanation because there is none.” But Judge Irene Sullivan knew there had to be more to the story than just a senseless crime, and she was determined to discover the root cause of Boatman’s behavior. Corresponding with him in prison, Judge Sullivan learned of the failures and abuses of every system Boatman had passed through, each intended to prevent such a devastating turn of events. Drawing on years of work with thousands of children, Judge Sullivan presents a plan for breaking the vicious cycle of child abuse and crime that causes such tragedies. Through eye-opening stories from both her own courtroom and the system at large, Judge Irene reveals what works for young people in jeopardy. The results are surprisingly few would have guessed that the most successful programs are also among the most cost-effective and practical. Raised by the Courts will be a source of hope and clarity for those who care about ending the cycle of violent crime among the youngest and most vulnerable members of society.

285 pages, Hardcover

First published November 2, 2010

Reviews

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this at the recommendation of a coworker (both in child welfare in Florida) and I’m glad she let me borrow her copy. I was immediately moved by the story of Javaris and strongly reminded why I work in my field—for the kids like Javaris, who have been let down by all the adults in his life and he’s left on his own with the consequences. This book is from 2010, so it was interesting to see the ideas that Judge Sullivan had or programs that were newer or funding had been cut that the state has chosen to fund more or implement now. From a child welfare POV, Florida implemented safety methodology in 2014 and Intensive Family Services in 2016/2017, so we are now attempting to heavily target generational issues that may end with youth being incarcerated. I also have to say, I enjoyed how much Judge Sullivan looked at the issues involving race and her wanting a concrete solution to the disproportionate minority contact. I can’t say that’s something I see addressed as a system at this point, but would like to see moving forward.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great insight from a judge that clearly cares about the kids she sees in court but struggles to help them through the corrupt justice system. Big fan of her programming in court, of my federal judges has implemented it into re-entry court!

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I work with children involved in child protection and in delinquency. Her description of the problems are right on target. She offered exposure to many different programs that are being attempted, which gave me hope that these children are not forgotten

[Marie]

didn't read it. added by mistake

[LNae · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read filled with heartbreak. Judge Sullivan works with juveniles in the court and has watched some of the children grown up there and I don't know how she does it.