Books

Judge Tom Jacobs familiarizes young readers with our legal system, dispels myths and mysteries, and shows that the law is by and for the people – including teens.

Every Vote Matters: The Power of Your Voice, from Student Elections to the Supreme Court (Free Spirit Publishing, 2016)

Judge Tom and his co-author/daughter Natalie encourage teens to recognize the importance of voting and making their voices heard in the democratic process. The book focuses on Supreme Court decisions that came down to a single vote. Chapters examine key Supreme Court rulings and explore how these cases have affected the lives and rights of U.S. citizens—especially teens. Using a straightforward, impartial tone, the authors take a close look at often controversial cases and at the history of voting in the United States. The emphasis is involvement in local and national elections as well as other ways to be an engaged citizen. There is an accompanying digital discussion guide for teachers and youth leaders.

Praise for Every Vote Matters:

“We are in urgent need of effective civic education, and Every Vote Matters is an excellent contribution that deserves wide readership.”—Rob Richie, executive director, FairVote

“A nice look at how much our votes can matter and the intersection between the voting participation of ordinary people and Supreme Court decisions.”—Paul Loeb, author of Soul of a Citizen

Teen Cyberbullying Investigated

How do teens know when they might be “one click away from the clink”? In Teen Cyberbullying Investigated, Judge Tom Jacobs presents a powerful collection of landmark court cases involving teens and charges of cyberbullying. This riveting, informative guide will help young people understand what cyberbullying is and is not, recognize when they may be its victims or perpetrators, and learn tactics for successfully dealing with it.

Teen Cyberbullying Investigated Book Video:

Teens Take It to Court

Because 15-year-old Gerry Gault fought for his rights, every teenager in the United States has specific rights when arrested and charged with a crime. This fascinating book describes precedent-setting cases that reveal the power of social action and prove that teens can change the law. Judge Jacobs familiarizes young readers with our legal system, dispels myths and mysteries, and shows that the law is by and for the people-including teens. (This book is no longer being published.)

They Broke the Law – You Be the Judge

Teens often hear about other teens who get into trouble with the law. But they’re seldom asked what they think should happen next and why. A unique introduction to the juvenile justice system, They Broke the Law invites teens to preside over a variety of real-life cases.Thought-provoking and eye-opening, this book is for all teens who want to know more about the juvenile justice system and the laws that pertain to them and their peers.

What Are My Rights? Q&A About Teens and the Law

Teens often have questions about the law, but they don’t know where to turn for answers. Updated with new facts and resources, written in clear, everyday language, this book explores 95 legal questions that pertain specifically to teens. Readers learn about the laws that affect them, appreciate their rights, and consider their responsibilities. Includes questions for reflection and discussion.

Judge Tom Jacobs has written several books for lawyers and judges concerning juvenile law, family law and community property.

Children and the Law: Rights & Obligations (Thomson Reuters, 2008*)

This multiple-volume set provides comprehensive treatment of the complex issues surrounding children and the legal system. You get in-depth analysis of must-know topics, such as: children’s legal rights, child welfare, termination of parental rights, child custody and support, guardianship, juvenile delinquency, dependency and severance, adoption, education, domestic relations, and health care.

Arizona Juvenile Law and Practice (Thomson Reuters, 2009-2010 ed.)

This book is a treatise on juvenile law, with special emphasis on recent changes. It provides a review of the leading cases on delinquency (including transfer), incorrigibility, juvenile traffic offenses, neglect, dependency, abuse, adoption, termination of parental rights (severance), and related topics.

Arizona Community Property Law (Thomson Reuters, 2009)

Single-volume work provides full description of community property law as it applies in Arizona. The book cites relevant property cases, rules and statutes.

*Thomson Reuters books shown here are updated annually.