It is extremely important to keep our children out of legal trouble at an early age as dumb mistakes as a youth can come back to haunt them later in life.  In California, the three strikes law has resulted int he 25 to life sentence of thousands of people, many for non-violent offenses.  Two childhood convictions for seemingly small crimes like shoplifting, or joyriding in a car are seen by the "system" as "robbery and ""grand theft auto".  A third conviction for something as simple as drug possession or forgery could land your child in jail with a minimum 25 to life.

Although the recent election has modified the California three strikes law there is is still grave danger in getting involved in the prison system including the loss of years, abuse in prison, extended sentences and even death.