When Are Juveniles Tried as Adults in Texas?

 Posted on December 26, 2024 in Criminal Law

In Texas, most crimes committed by juveniles are handled in the juvenile justice system. This system focuses on rehabilitation, offering young people a chance to learn from their mistakes and make necessary changes so they can move forward. 

However, there are some cases when juveniles are tried as adults. This can lead to harsher penalties and a lifelong criminal record. If your juvenile child is facing criminal charges, a knowledgeable Texas criminal defense lawyer can review his case and help protect his rights and future.

When Does Texas Try a Juvenile as an Adult?

Anyone under the age of 17 is considered a juvenile according to Texas law. Juveniles charged with crimes are typically processed in the juvenile justice system. However, some crimes are considered serious enough for defendants to be tried in adult court regardless of their age. 

When a juvenile is on the stand, a judge decides whether the case should be tried in juvenile or adult court by considering several factors, including:

• The defendant’s age: A juvenile must be at least 14 years old to be tried in adult court for a felony case.

• The severity of the crime: Violent crimes like murder or aggravated robbery are more likely to be transferred to adult court.

• The defendant’s criminal history: Whether it is a first offense or has followed a pattern of repeated offenses can influence the judge’s decision.

• Likelihood of rehabilitation: The judge will consider whether the juvenile court system can effectively rehabilitate a defendant.

If the judge believes the juvenile should face adult consequences, the case will be transferred to adult court.

What Crimes Lead to Juveniles Being Tried as Adults?

Juveniles are generally tried in juvenile court for nonviolent crimes and most often tried as adults for serious felonies, such as murder, manslaughter, aggravated assault, sexual assault, robbery, aggravated robbery, or kidnapping. Some other serious offenses, like drug trafficking or arson, can also result in a juvenile being tried as an adult.

What Happens to Juveniles in Adult Court?

A juvenile defendant who is tried as an adult faces the same legal process and potential penalties as adults in similar situations. That means they can face harsher penalties than they might in juvenile court, be sentenced to serve time in an adult prison, and have a permanent criminal record.

That is why it is imperative to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney if your child is facing criminal charges. At Law Offices of Sam H. Lock, we fight to keep cases in juvenile court whenever possible. We present evidence showing that rehabilitation through the juvenile justice system is a better option than punishment, and we can build a strong defense to protect your child’s future.

Contact a San Antonio, TX Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being tried as an adult can have life-altering consequences for a juvenile. The qualified San Antonio, TX criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of Sam H. Lock is dedicated to helping families navigate these challenging situations as they work together to fight for the best possible outcome. Call us 210-226-0965 to schedule a private consultation.