Utah Juveniles Don’t Usually Face Criminal Convictions–With a Few Exceptions

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Photo: Darien Library

In this state, most cases involving Utah juveniles are considered civil proceedings. Some exceptions include:

* traffic violations

* murder or aggravated murder committed by a juvenile aged 16 or older

* certain crimes which would be considered a felony if committed by an adult

* serious youth offender crimes

* other serious felonies that end up having the minor’s case transferred to district court

An adjudication in juvenile court is not a criminal conviction. Additionally, juvenile court adjudications may not impose civil disabilities or prevent the youth from future military service or appointment.

The Role of Juvenile Court is Rehabilitation if Possible

As a general rule, juvenile courts are not designed to take Utah juveniles who are delinquent in some fashion and subject them to the same type of penalties that are imposed upon adults. Rehabilitation is supposed to be the first order of business, not excessive punishment.

Update on Southern Utah Murder Suspect

As we mentioned last week, there is a 17-year-old boy in southern Utah who was a suspect in a murder. He has now been charged with murder, along with several other crimes. He turns 18 in a couple of days, at which point it’s understood he may be put in with the regular adult jail population.

The prosecution in this case is asking that he be treated as an adult. His defense attorney, on the other hand, would prefer to see the boy’s case remain in juvenile court. Of course, we don’t know the outcome at this point, but it will be interesting to see what the judge decides.

Don’t take anything for granted if your son or daughter has been arrested for any offense–regardless of the severity. Talk to a Utah juvenile defense attorney as soon as possible to find out what options are available for your child and get his or her case moving in a positive direction.