Arizona Constitution Practice Test

Laws relating to juveniles may be enacted by?

1. the Supreme Court

2. the legislature or the people by referendum or initiative

3. the Governor

4. juvenile courts

The correct answer is: the legislature or the people by referendum or initiative

Laws relating to juveniles can indeed be enacted by the legislature or the people through referendum or initiative because this reflects the principles of representative democracy and direct democracy in the legislative process. In Arizona, the state legislature has the authority to create laws that govern various aspects of juvenile justice, including delinquency procedures and rehabilitation programs. Moreover, Arizona law allows citizens to participate in the legislative process through initiatives and referenda. This means that the people can propose new laws or amendments to existing laws concerning juveniles, which can then be voted on in an election. This dual approach not only provides a structured mechanism for lawmaking but also empowers the community to influence legal standards applicable to juveniles. While the Supreme Court and the Governor have important roles in interpreting and enforcing laws, they do not have the direct authority to create laws. Juvenile courts, on the other hand, apply existing laws rather than enact new ones, serving primarily as adjudicators in cases involving minors. Therefore, the combination of legislative action and citizen participation is the appropriate avenue for enacting laws relating to juveniles.