Are there any special considerations for juveniles charged with a violent crime?

In Florida, juveniles accused of committing a violent crime are subject to the same laws and punishments as an adult. However, there are certain considerations that apply for minors. For instance, a juvenile in Florida may not face the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole for a violent crime, no matter how serious the charges are. This is in accordance with the Supreme Court’s 2012 Miller v. Alabama ruling, which forbids such punishments for minors. Additionally, all criminal charges against minors must be heard in juvenile court, rather than adult criminal court. This means that there can be a greater emphasis on rehabilitation rather than punishment. Measures such as community service, counseling, and probation are often used in order to help a juvenile stay on the right path. In some cases, a juvenile who has been accused of a violent crime may be tried as an adult. This is usually reserved for violent crimes that are considered exceptionally serious, such as murder. In this case, the juvenile may face a harsher sentence than if they had been tried in juvenile court. Given these special considerations, minors charged with a violent crime in Florida should seek out an experienced criminal defense attorney to ensure they are treated fairly within the justice system.

Related FAQs

What are the consequences of a conviction for a violent crime?
What are some of the possible consequences of a violent crime conviction?
What types of experts might be called to testify in a violent crime case?
Is it possible to get a reduction in sentence for a violent crime conviction?
Are there any specific laws that apply to victims of violent crime?
What is entrapment?
What is the difference between a violent hate crime and a hate speech offense?
What is the difference between manslaughter and murder?
How is the severity of a violent crime determined?
What is the process for plea bargaining a violent crime case?

Are there any special considerations for juveniles charged with a violent crime?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts