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.
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.
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"Rob McKinney in an amazing attorney he will always be my first choice!"I seriously can’t give this guy enough credit! I’ve made a few bad choices in my lifetime before I got it together and I’ve had rob mckinney represent me for most of it. No doubt at all that he’s the best man for the job. He’s got me the best possible outcome and always went above and beyond for me every step of the way. Rob is such a genuine person and truly cares! If you’re looking for a great lawyer look no further mr. McKinney is your guy!- Josh woods
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"Appreciative of Your Kindness"I feel very blessed and appreciative for your kindness.- Audrey
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"Perfect Results"I am grateful for this level of professionalism and you would be foolish not to have her represent you.- Kyle
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"Rob and his team did a fantastic job on my case... I would definitely use his services again."Rob and his team did a fantastic job on my case... I would definitely use his services again.- Larry P.
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"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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"The Only Choice for the Best Results"The case came during my senior year of college. It was the scariest moment of my entire life. I felt my career was over before it even started. I chose McKinney Law Firm because they are the Best of the Best. To have a prepared and knowledgeable defense, in a room where you feel guilty until proven innocent, is invaluable. Roger T. May's no non-sense approach was deliberate and strategic. The results of the case were better than I could have ever imagined. After the case was over, I went on to land a lucrative job, travel the world, and have had a very successful career. I truly believe McKinney Law Firm gave me a second chance at life. I am forever grateful for the team's care, urgency, persistence, and professionalism during a very difficult time. "Because I knew you, I have been changed for good." Thank you.- -Satisfied Client
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""Best Lawyer In the world will not quit .""Best lawyer have known will not quit will fight all the way!- Marvin Johnson
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""Do yourself a favor, make Rob your flavor.""I was visiting friends in Nashville and sightseeing around the Titan stadium when about 8 officers drew their weapons on me from a good 100+ feet away, demanding that I freeze and put my hands in the air. My first response was to pull out my knife while i tried to gain focus on who and why this was happening. Is this a joke? Am i being robbed possibly? That was the thoughts racing through my mind. Apparently, someone had called and said someone with a backpack threatened to blow up the stadium, WOW! I understand these officers were doing their job but after they searched me and found I was innocent they still charged me with two counts of aggravated assault on a police officer and a few others for good measure. My lawyer Rob Mckinney knew i was being honest and meant no one harm, but I was really scared that it may turn out very differently due to the circumstances. He not only got my charges dismissed but my record expunged as well. I'm forever grateful and would recommend this legal team for anyone in need of a most stellar lawyer. Thanks again Rob and the rest of the team.- Eric A
