If I was arrested and charged with burglary tools and burglary of vehicle when I was 17 but was charged as an adult, was that a mistake?
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If I was arrested and charged with burglary tools and burglary of vehicle when I was 17 but was charged as an adult, was that a mistake?
I thought 17 was still considered being a minor/juvenile.
Asked on June 23, 2014 under Criminal Law, Illinois
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
In some states that is true. In others not true. In Illinois a juvenile is anyone under the age of 17. Anyone 13 years old and above can be tried as an adult if he or she has a record of previously breaking the law or commits a serious crime. Minors who are 15 or 16 years old are automatically tried as adults for certain offenses, including murder, aggravated criminal sexual assault, and armed robbery with a firearm. A “once an adult always an adult” policy is enforced as long as the minor was convicted and sentenced. I would speak with some one about expungement or sealing a record or a pardon.
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