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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"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.
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"Simply Awesome"
I appreciate absolutely everything that you and your team have done for me. I could not have made a better decision than to have your representation during this horrific time in my life. Along the way, I feel like I was educated about the process and felt at ease with every step. The due diligence that was done on your behalf was top tier and goes without saying, simply awesome! The only regret I have is not coming to your first. You have my full support of referrals to anyone I hear that needs a great defense team in their corner, because I sure did! Again, Thank you!
- Anonymous -
"Do not give up hope"Words cannot express my gratitude and appreciation to Rob McKinney and his entire law firm. This was my first experience with needing legal representation. After speaking with other attorneys, I was told that there was not much they could be do for me. I was fully aware that the odds were stacked against me and I was losing hope. Mr. McKinney told me that he would fight for me and that is exactly what he did. I could not have asked for a better outcome. I highly recommend this firm- Anonymous
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"Stop searching for an attorney. Stop worrying about your legal woes. Stop wondering if your attorney actually cares and start letting Rob McKinney handle your case."In a nutshell, all of the glowing reviews that I read on this site are 100% spot-on. I had a DWI case reduced to reckless driving. Rob is a fighter and would have battled for a full dismissal if I had requested him to but after some discussion I concluded that accepting the lesser charge was the right move for me. Furthermore, Rob was able to file a motion and get the judge to dismiss my probation obligations once I finished the mandatory classes. It was the best possible result for me. I also need to mention that Karen, the front end of the firm, is spectacular and plays an important part in the firm's success and client experience. She responds to communications promptly and keeps you informed of what's happening as required while Rob and Shyanne stay busy getting the legal work done. Seriously, if you're searching for representation and nervous because you don't know who you can trust and rely on, just stop. I promise you these reviews you've been reading (just like I did before I contacted the firm) are accurate and you can quickly take some of the weight off of your shoulders by having a meeting at May & McKinney and retaining them for your case.- D.T.
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"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.
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"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
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"No Nonsense, Willful & Determined"My reputation is restored thanks to Ms. Riddle and May McKinney.- Mark
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"You Were There For Us"You are more to us than just a lawyer.- J.B.
