#207 Should A Juveniles Record Be Wiped Clean At 18?

The Niall Boylan Podcast (They Told Me To Shut Up)

In this episode, Niall explores the question of whether juvenile records should be automatically wiped clean at the age of 18. Drawing from the provisions of the Criminal Justice (Spent Convictions and Certain Disclosures) Act 2016 in Ireland, Niall delves into the complexities surrounding this issue.

Niall opens the lines to callers, inviting listeners to share their perspectives. Some callers advocate for wiping juvenile records clean at 18, emphasizing the importance of giving young offenders a fresh start as they enter adulthood. They argue that retaining juvenile records could unfairly stigmatize individuals and hinder their opportunities for rehabilitation.

On the other hand, some callers express reservations about automatically clearing juvenile records at 18. They raise concerns about accountability and the potential consequences of erasing records for serious offenses committed during adolescence. While acknowledging the need for rehabilitation, they suggest that certain offenses may warrant continued disclosure of juvenile records.

Throughout the episode, Niall navigates the diverse viewpoints presented by callers. In wrapping up the discussion, he reflects on the insights shared and underscores the importance of finding a balanced approach to addressing juvenile records.