Certification of Utah Juvenile as Adult
There are several factors which a juvenile court judge must consider before agreeing with the certification of a Utah juvenile as an adult.
Questions a Judge will Consider
• The seriousness of the offense, and whether or not the public is best served by having the Utah juvenile remanded to a facility other than one offered by juvenile justice services
• If the crime committed by the juvenile could be charged with enhanced penalties if it had been committed by an adult, particularly if the crime involved two or more people or was gang-related
• Whether the alleged offense was committed in an aggressive, violent, premeditated or willful way
• Was the crime committed against a person or property—with more concern placed on a crime against a person
• The maturity level of the minor, taking into account the minor’s home, emotional attitude, environment and way of life
• The Utah juvenile’s previous record and history
• How likely rehabilitation could be if the juvenile were taken care of at a Utah juvenile facility
• If other juveniles involved are being charged and tried in a district court
• Whether a firearm was used during the commission of the crime
• If the Utah juvenile possessed a dangerous weapon on or around school grounds
Juveniles Going Through District Court Process
Once a juvenile’s case has been transferred to district court, the rest of the proceedings—including sentencing—will be handled by that court. If a Utah juvenile is found not guilty, acquitted or has his charges dismissed in district court, he will then return to the jurisdiction of the juvenile court system (for any further incidents).
Contact a Utah Juvenile Defense Attorney
It is wise to consult with a Utah juvenile defense attorney if your child is being charged with any crime, regardless of the nature of the court. You don’t want to take chances when it comes to the welfare of your child, and an experienced Utah juvenile defense attorney can help with any legal questions or problems. Make the right choice and call a juvenile defense attorney today.
