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Juvenile Transfer Hearings

Nashville Juvenile Crime Attorneys

There are specific circumstances where a minor may be tried as an adult in Tennessee, but only after a hearing is held to review the facts of the case. At May McKinney, we are dedicated to fighting for minors across Nashville and the surrounding areas who are facing trial as an adult. Our experience with juvenile transfer hearings is considerable, and we use this to our clients’ advantage, vigorously pursuing an ideal result – one that keeps the case in juvenile court or even leads to an outright dismissal.

Our Nashville juvenile crime lawyers have over 80 years of combined legal experience and take a holistic approach that addresses every aspect and angle of a case. This has led to better and swifter results across our practice areas.

To find out how we can help you or your child, call (615) 265-6383 or contact us online.

When Is a Juvenile Tried as an Adult?

In Tennessee, a minor may be tried as an adult if:

  • The minor was at least 16 at the time of the offense; or
  • The minor was under the age of 16 but is accused of committing or attempting to commit murder, rape, aggravated or especially aggravated robbery, or kidnapping.

Further, the court must find that there are reasonable grounds to believe the minor committed the offense, that the minor cannot be committed to an institution for the mentally ill or developmentally disabled, and that trial as an adult would be in the best interests of the community.

The court may consider whether rehabilitation is possible and may also take into account whether the alleged offense was premeditated or committed in an aggressive manner. The minor’s past delinquency records, if any, will also be considered.

The death penalty may not be pursed if a minor is tried as an adult.

Juvenile Transfer Hearings for Past Crimes

Juvenile transfer hearings may also apply if a person who is now 18 years old is suspected of having committed an offense while he or she was still a minor. A petition will be filed in the juvenile court with jurisdiction over the matter, which will then determine whether it will retain jurisdiction.

About Juvenile Transfer Hearings in Tennessee

Juvenile transfer hearings are not taken lightly. The child in question has a right to legal counsel, and having a skilled attorney to present compelling evidence can persuade the juvenile court to retain the case. The entire purpose of the juvenile justice system is to offer rehabilitation and reasonable penalties for minors who have done wrong, and trial as an adult goes against this.

May McKinney is here to deliver vigorous legal representation if your child is facing a juvenile transfer hearing. Serving Nashville and the surrounding communities, we are willing to take whatever approach is necessary to pursue the best possible outcome based on your needs and goals.

Contact us today to discuss the ways our Nashville juvenile crime lawyers can help you. Call us at (615) 265-6383.

Our Clients Say It Best

Read Our Client Testimonials

At May McKinney, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "A Great Firm to work with!!"
    Mr. McKinney assisted my daughter with two separate cases. Both were handled very professionally and had very positive outcomes. He was always helpful when meetings were held and assisted in making this extremely stressful time easier for her. I would recommend his firm to anyone who needs the assistance of very capable, professional, caring attorneys.
    - L.R.
    "I could not be more satisfied with the outcome McKinney Law produced."

    I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank you and your entire team. I could not be more satisfied with the outcome McKinney law produced, especially considering the circumstances. McKinney law helped me navigate and overcome difficulties that I am still astounded by. Even through these stressful times, you were there for me and my family. I will not hesitate to recommend or if ever needed have you represent me again. I will certainly let anyone I know, that you and your team are the best hands down! Thanks again, Rob! Your assistance and representation were completely amazing!

    - Jason B.
    "It's a Comfort to Have You On My Side"

    I just wanted to say thank you for everything you have been doing for me. It's comforting to know I've got you on my side. You're the BEST!!

    P.S. — I really can't thank you enough.

    - R.
    "You Have Proven Yourself"
    Thanks once more for your ability to get it reduced and if I ever need legal assistance in the future, you have proven yourself to me.
    - A.W.
    "Forever Grateful"
    Thank you for helping me to not only resolve a recent legal matter, but also pointing me in the direction of freedom from a past criminal record. I am clean and free, and I have a clear record for the first time in 12 years.
    - Rachel
    "Knowledgeable, Kind & Real"
    Her recommendations on how to proceed were spot on, and we got a favorable outcome.
    - Satisfied Client
    "On more than one occasion, you treated me like kin. It meant more than you both will ever know."
    On more than one occasion, you treated me like kin. It meant more than you both will ever know.
    - Satisfied Client
    "Truly Grateful"
    There are precious times in our lives when we are blessed with people who make a difference.
    - Nathan
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Why Choose May McKinney?

A Firm Committed to You, Your Case & Your Future
  • Nearly 80 Years of Combined Experience
    Our accomplished attorneys bring almost eight decades of combined criminal defense experience.
  • Educated In Our Field
    Our team believes in ongoing training in the criminal defense field. Our attorneys are educated in the latest forensic science technology and Attorney Riddle is Trauma Certified.
  • A Team Approach
    Our attorneys work each case as a unit, which is extremely beneficial to our clients. No matter the case size, it's integral to get the experience and knowledge of a team.
  • An Aggressive Defense
    When you choose May McKinney, you are choosing a team that will fight tooth and nail for your rights, your freedom, and your future.