Under what circumstances can juveniles be tried as though they were adults?

In any case of a delinquent child, the Court can, at its discretion after the transfer hearing permit that child to face charges in adult court. A number of factors may be considered by the court in determining whether a child should be transferred. Some examples include the following:

• The child has committed a serious crime.
• The crime was aggressive, violent, premeditated or willful.
• The crime was against a police officer.
• The child committed the crime with adult accomplices.
• The child has a history of committing crimes.
• The need for stiffer penalties than provided for in juvenile court.

• Prev
• Next