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 pursued 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.