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Juvenile Transfer Hearings A Team Who Will Tenaciously Defend You Every Step of the Way

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.

    "Made a Horrible Situation Bearable"

    Shyanne immediately knew what to do and handled my case with professionalism and expertise. She made a horrible situation bearable and stayed with me throughout the process.

    - Satisfied Client
    "Maestro of the room"
    Rob is extremely intelligent and makes you feel comfortable at the same time considering your situation His staff is prompt knowledgeable and very kind Would recommend to anyone And would believe if they can not assist that they would lead you in the correct way It has been a pleasure These guys are worth every penny Thank you again
    - John
    "Rob McKinney did an exceptional job! Not only did he get the best outcome possible for my case, he had skilled knowledge to answer all my questions about my nursing license along the way!"
    Rob McKinney did an exceptional job! I was extremely worried about my case. Not only did he get the best outcome possible for my case, he had skilled knowledge to answer all my questions about my nursing license along the way. I would recommend him to all of my closest friends and family. Karen and the entire staff are extremely helpful and I always felt that I was a priority. Thank you Mr. McKinney for helping to keep my future bright! I am so very thankful to you!
    - Very Satisfied Client
    "Best Case Scenario"
    If you’re looking for a firm who knows how to handle a DUI/DWI case, give Shyanne a call.
    - Satisfied Client
    "Amazing service"
    Rob McKinney is the best criminal attorney in Nashville area. I had 7 cases and he got them dismissed right away! He made the trip to Clarksville from Nashville and saved me from loosing my green card. His experience, his dedication, knowledge and caring heart is unmatched. I am forever grateful!
    - PF
    "Appreciative of Your Kindness"
    I feel very blessed and appreciative for your kindness.
    - Audrey
    "Repeat offender facing time"
    When I got I hemmed up in Gallatin and caught two charges, I was told I was facing 180 days plus an extra 180-365 days serving time. I told my folks I was tired of taking chances with amateurs when It came to a legal defense lawyer. I initially called Frank Lannom's office, but they regrettably informed they did not practice in Sumner but they knew who did that was just as good and experienced. They gaveme the number to Mr. McKinneys office here. I called them up and Ms Savannah Edmonds met with me that day on a zoom meeting. I gave a very professional summarization of my charges , sentance they carried, as well as the exact figure they would charge. She even called me back to correct herself on something she said wrong. I thought that was exceptionally professional. Needless to say I knew May and McKinney were the lawyers I want defending me. It's easy to make back money. You can't get your time back. Anyway today was the first day of court with my Lawyer. And my first offer was "both charges dismissed" . Now you can't get much better than that. If you want to save money, take the amateurs and risk loosing your life, your name, your integrity or hire the professionals of May and McKinney and get results. Remember "you get what ya pay for" and with May and Mckinney it's well worth every penny !
    - Robert F.
    "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
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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.