What happens when a juvenile is charged with a felony?

For felony charges that raise the level of severity to the adult courts, the teen will face the normal criminal justice system. At this point, the youth may still reach youthful offender status if eligible. However, when not qualified as a youthful offender, all normal adult criminal processes will occur.

What are the requirements to be a youthful offender?

To qualify as a youthful offender, the teen must not commit certain crimes that may include Class A felonies or greater. He or she must also not have any previous felony convictions or even more severe juvenile convictions before the current felony charge.

What are the sentencing options for juvenile offenders?

Juvenile courts offer youth offenders many sentencing options, also known as “disposition orders.” These sentencing options fall under two major categories and depend on the severity of the offense and the minor’s criminal history: Incarceration.

Can a juvenile be charged with a Class B felon?

These violations generally include Class B felonies, Class A felonies and arson murder charges. There are some exceptions to those that are specific to the charge and case. While the youth would automatically go to the adult court for criminal justice, the case itself is private and would remain entirely separate from the adult criminal processes.

When does the arrest rate for juvenile crime decrease?

Data shows that the arrest of serious violent careers begins to increase at age twelve, doubles between ages thirteen and fourteen, and continues to increase to a peak at ages sixteen to seventeen. Id. It drops fifty percent by age eighteen, and continues to decrease through age twenty-seven.

How old do you have to be to be a juvenile offender?

Youth who are accused of committing crimes fall into three categories: Juvenile Delinquent, Juvenile Offender, and Adolescent Offender. Juvenile Delinquents A Juvenile Delinquent is a child over 7, but under 18 years of age (effective 10/1/19), who commits an act that would be a crime if it had been committed by an adult.

When does a juvenile become a Chronic Offender?

Chronic offenders make up less than ten percent of juvenile offenders, but are responsible for two-thirds of all violent offenses. Id. Data shows that the arrest of serious violent careers begins to increase at age twelve, doubles between ages thirteen and fourteen, and continues to increase to a peak at ages sixteen to seventeen.