Also, if minors aren't bound by contract law, why should they be eligible for life sentences?
I guess by your logic, nobody under 18 can be bound by ANY law?
I would not lower the age, but I would allow the case to be moved to adult court with adult sentences (juvenile detention up to age 18) BUT it would be up to the courts discretion (subject to appeal). It is not that I want all minors to get more sever punishments, but I want it to remain an option - if only as a deterrent.
I knew one person, who I was best friends with in Grade 3 -- but not at the time of the crime (although I still new him) [I cannot remember if he would have been under or over 16 - it was close], who broke a house to rob (another classmate of mine) -- when the mother of the house walked in. He beat her senseless (several fingers etc. had to be amputated), continued to rob the house -- then came back apparently to finish off the only witness -- which is when he was caught (she had come too and gone to a neighbours).
For that crime - he got 3 years.
IMHO: A lot of arguments seem to focus on whether our prison system is focused on rehabilitation first, or punishment first. Actually, the first and most important function of a prison -- is to protect society.
Also, a life sentence is 25 years (even without the option of parole - may only end up meaning 15 years). However they can be under supervision their whole life. In rare circumstances they may be deemed a dangerous offender - and held indefinitely (pending regular reviews).
