A common thought when a young teen has committed a crime is that they are going to juvenile court. After all, it is built in a way that ensures the minor understands the repercussions of their mistakes and decisions in the future. There are instances, however, in which a juvenile can be tried as an adult. This is known as adult transfer or waiver, and it is more frequent than one would expect.
Wondering what kind of imagination, or what kinds of offenses, is mature enough to warrant that kind of over-the-top justice? Let’s unpack that defensively.
What Are The Crimes Committed By Juvelines That Make Them Get An Adult Crime Label?
Certain crimes are considered quite violent hence a juvenile would be tried in an adult court. The logic is that some youths are destined to be a menace even in the juvenile system; which fails to correct their criminal behaviors.
Another one is community safety, as mentioned above. The juvenile may still pose a risk to society in the future if allowed back into the juvenile system.
⚖️ Do you know? The first juvenile court in the USA was built in Illinois in the year 1899 with the thought that a minor would be able to escape all punishment that adults would get.
Crimes That Can Lead To Juvenile Offenders Faces Adult Punishment
Juveniles have already committed offenses that carry adult charges and become subject to adult penalties due to their repulsive nature. Some of these crimes include the following.
1. Violent Crimes
- Murder for gain, murder even in the absence of any motivation, or execution of someone for a reason
- The act of raiding a place with armed men
- Rough and Forced Violent Fighting, usually with the intent to harm
When a minor is charged with an offense causing violence, such as murder, etc, then there is a likelihood that the young offender will be charged as an adult and be sentenced to an adult prison. One of these types of instances is when a juvenile is involved with a murder.
2. Sex Crimes
- Rape or sexual intrusion against any female without her consent or knowledge
- To have sexual physical contact with a minor
This one is one of the foremost crimes that is well thought of not to be taken lightly. Youngsters are usually allowed to be held liable under adult law when charged with such sexual offenses.
3. Crimes Involving Weapons
- Using a handgun, rifle, or some type of fully automatic firearm to commit a crime such as robotic, gang violence, etc
- Possession or selling of illegal weapons including unlicensed firearms.
For matters involving credibly violent weapons, voir dire arms cases in the juvenile courts are steadily looking more towards targeting offenders fitting that description for adult charges.
4. Drug Offences
- Trafficking for the intended purpose of drug distribution
- Distributing drugs in pieces
Juveniles below the age of 18 can also be considered under adult law for various drug offenses, Selling drugs off in bulk quantities or on frequent occasions fits the requirement of being charged as an adult.
5. Serious Property Crimes
- Setting a building or place on fire purposely to destroy it
- Burrowing into an establishment or private residence with the intent to register.
These types of acts always warrant an outcry. Similarly, these types of high damage will bring high damage. The court will decide if it may be warranted to present such charges that would be much higher than that.
How Are These Cases Determined?
However, not all juveniles who commit a serious crime will automatically be tried as an adult. A few factors are:
- Age of the Juvenile: For the most part, juveniles who are over 14 years of age are more likely to be prosecuted as adults.
- Nature of Charges: A more adult charge is likely warranted if the crime was violent and or premeditated.
- Records of Previous Offenses: If the offender is a repeat offender, they may be subjected to harsher punishment.
- Capacity for Rehabilitation: The court examines whether the juvenile can change their conduct within the juvenile system.
In some states, some laws force them to go through trial as adults for specific offenses. Such laws are a form of “statutory exclusion”.
Statistics on Juveniles in the Adult System
- Every year in the United States, nearly 76,000 juveniles are sent to prison as adults.
- Adult essential youth crime offenders are 34% more likely to commit another crime than those who are placed as delinquents.
- Florida, in addition to Lake County, has emerged toward the highest levels when it comes to raising the number of transferred juveniles toward adult court.
The Role of a Juvenile Justice Lawyer in Lake County
When a juvenile faces the risk of adult prosecution, having legal representation becomes vital. There are juvenile justice lawyers in Lake County who can assist families and advocate for the desired outcome.
The lawyer would argue that:
- The case should not be taken out of the jurisdiction of the juvenile court.
- There are reasonable rehabilitation opportunities for the juvenile.
- The juvenile’s rights will be observed and protected in the course of the case.
Why This Matters
This could have negative consequences if a minor is treated as an adult. Quite often, the sentence for an adult crime is imprisonment in an adult correctional institution, hence exposing a pliable and impressionable adolescent to a precarious and hostile environment. For a young individual, a documented conviction implies endorsement for drooping education, employment, and homes in the future.
This is the reason why in Florida one needs to find a criminal attorney who has special experience in juvenile law. They support the family throughout these stressful situations and help to reduce the consequences for the juvenile’s future life.
Suggestions for Parents and Guardians
If your child is the subject of a legal matter, here’s what you can do:
- Take a Deep Breath: There is no need to panic; concentrate on the problem and the attempt to solve it.
- Get a Lawyer: This will form a strong defense in your case against the attorney general.
- Know The Charges: Learn more about what your child is facing.
- Show This Child Your Support: For them, it is a challenging period; help them.
To Sum Up
When youths encounter adult criminal charges, they find themselves in a pivotal moment in their lives. The choices made during these moments can influence the rest of their lives. That’s also why it is crucial to review the legal system and hire professionals.
If you or anyone you know is facing a case of juvenile crime, act now. Contact a juvenile defense attorney in Lake County or any legal counselor for criminal defense in Florida to get the help and direction you deserve.
Do not forget that every case is different and with the appropriate assistance, there is always the possibility of a good turn around.