Can a juvenile be charged with a violent crime?

Yes, a juvenile can be charged with a violent crime in Tennessee. It is important to note, however, that the state does have policies in place that are in place to protect minors from criminal prosecution. The Department of Children’s Services (DCS) in Tennessee has certain processes it must go through when determining whether a juvenile should be held accountable for a violent crime. In order to be tried as an adult for a violent crime in the state, a juvenile must go through a process called “Certification”. The DCS will review the juvenile’s criminal background, the details of the alleged offense, and the individual’s overall history. The court must find that the juvenile is at least 16 years old, the offense was violent in nature, and the accused presents a substantial risk of harm to others. If the juvenile is certified as an adult, they will be tried in criminal court, where they face the same penalties as an adult would. In some cases, this could include jail time and significant fines. If the court finds that the juvenile is not eligible for certification, they will be tried as a juvenile and will face lesser penalties. In summary, it is possible for a juvenile to be charged with a violent crime in Tennessee. The state has processes in place to protect minors, but the court still has the right to deem a juvenile eligible for adult prosecution in certain situations.

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Can a juvenile be charged with a violent crime?

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