When a minor is arrested, parents and guardians are understandably concerned about what the future holds for them. Is the trial process the same one that adults go through, or are children and adolescents subject to different rules and regulations? The answer is that circumstances and specific charges are important here, but felony charges are a possibility when minors commit serious crimes.
JUVENILE JUSTICE
Many minors find themselves in juvenile court when they break the law. This court system focuses on rehabilitation so that the minors in question can grow up and avoid legal issues. This differs from adult courts, where the focus is more on punishment and protecting the public from violent or dangerous criminals. With that said, there are a few crimes that could land a minor in the adult legal system and result in felony charges under certain circumstances. These include:
- Sexual Battery
- Murder
- Carjacking
- Strong-Armed or Armed Robbery
- Aggravated Assault
- Burglary
- Aggravated Battery
- Home-Invasion Robbery
ADULT COURT
If the minor in question has committed one of the above crimes and meets a few other requirements, they could be tried in adult court. This means that they will be subject to the same laws designed to punish criminals and protect the general public that adults face. This isn’t the most common experience that most minors have, however it is a very real possibility nonetheless. And if the minor is convicted, they could face an extended prison or jail sentence.
SEEK LEGAL COUNSEL
The most important thing you can do for a loved one that is facing potential felony charges is to invest in an experienced attorney. This is especially true when the person in question is a minor that could potentially have the entire trajectory of their lives changed. Reach out to the Dunn Law Firm today at 941-866-4352 or visit our office at 49 N. East Avenue
Sarasota, FL 34237.