The question of whether a juvenile can be tried as an adult in Texas is a nuanced and complex issue, elucidated by Texas Criminal Defense Attorney Christopher Cavazos. This matter isn’t uniform across counties and cities, but generally, for serious felony offenses committed by 14, 15, and 16-year-olds, the juvenile prosecutor can petition the court for certification and transfer.
Certify and Transfer: Unraveling the Process
Certification and transfer involve a two-step process. First, the court must certify that the juvenile is to be treated as an adult. This is only applicable to certain age brackets, emphasizing the need for a case-by-case assessment. Once certified, the case is then transferred from the juvenile court to the adult court, where proceedings mirror those of adult cases.
Age and Seriousness: Key Determinants
Certification and transfer aren’t commonplace for younger juveniles, with the focus primarily on 14, 15, and 16-year-olds accused of severe offenses. Christopher Cavazos underscores that the decision hinges on factors such as the seriousness of the felony. Notably, an 11 or 12-year-old wouldn’t typically undergo this process, highlighting the discernment exercised in these legal considerations.
Facing Adult Consequences: A Common Reality
For 15 or 16-year-olds accused of grave offenses, certification and transfer to adult court is not uncommon. This legal maneuver allows the justice system to treat the juvenile as an adult, acknowledging the gravity of the charges. Cavazos emphasizes that this process is prevalent in serious felony cases, reflecting a legal strategy to address the alleged actions of older juveniles in a manner consistent with the severity of the offenses.
Conclusion: Legal Realities for Older Juveniles in Texas
The ability to try a juvenile as an adult in Texas is contingent on various factors, including age and the seriousness of the alleged offense. Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer Christopher Cavazos sheds light on the certification and transfer process, emphasizing its prevalence in handling older juveniles accused of significant felonies. Understanding this legal nuance is crucial for families navigating the intricate landscape of the Texas justice system.
If you live in San Antonio, Texas and would like to hire Christopher for your Juvenile Law Case or legal assistance, visit Christopher Cavazos’ profile on the Esquire Elite website here: https://www.esquireelite.com/attorney/christopher-cavazos/
Disclaimer: The information in this article is not intended to be legal advice. Each situation is different, and the insurance laws in your state may differ from those discussed in this article. Please seek the advice of a professional for any questions related to your specific situation.
