Monster

Myers, W. D. (1999). Monster. NY: Harper 

Steven Harmon is a 16 year old on trial for murder. The story is told from Steve's point of view.  It switches between a movie screenplay and his journal writings.  Being incarcerated terrifies him daily.  The dangers of jail are detailed in the book.  The book not only details jail life, but also the trial process. Steven is called a Monster by the prosecutor. He is accused of killing the store owner, he was just the lookout but is being charged with the murder.  In the end he is found innocent, but when he goes to hug his attorney, she turns away for him.  He never knows why. 

His relationship with his father is also changed as a result of the trial.
I would recommend this book for ages 13 and older.