Questions to Consider Before Sentencing Carla 1. Carla has already spent 60 days in jail awaiting sentencing. Should she be punished anymore? Is there anything to gain from sentencing her to more jail time?

2. What do you think of the parenting skills of Carla's mother? How much is Carla's mother to blame for her daughter's behavior? What can you do about this?

3. Should counseling be provided for all family members or just to Carla? How do you get to the bottom of what triggers Carla's conflicts with her mother?

4. Are you worried that Carla's behavior at home affects her brothers and sisters? Should you find out whether they want her home or are afraid of her? How much should the reaction of the brothers and sister affect your decision?

5. If Carla goes home, what precautions can you take to prevent fights and protect her family members?

You Be the Judge

6. Based on the information available, what should Carla's sentence be and why?

Your Response to the Judge's Decision

7. Are you surprised by the judge's sentence? Why or why not?

8. Was it harder or easier on Carla than your sentence? In what ways?

9. What part of the judge's sentence do you agree with? What part do you disagree with? Why?

10. Is there something missing from Carla's sentence? If so, what is it and why is it important?

11. What do you predict will happen when Carla returns home?

Final Thoughts

12. What is your reaction to the letter Carla wrote from jail?

13. Carla had a hard time growing up in a neighborhood with crime and drugs. How has your neighborhood affected you? What would you most like to change about your neighborhood?

14. Were you surprised to read that Carla has two children? Were you surprised to read that she is taking care of them?

15. Do you or does someone close to you have a short temper? Do you know what your hot buttons are and how to control them? Is your safety or the safety of other family members at risk? Is there someone you can go to for help or advice?