Every state has its own laws regarding issues that might warrant a juvenile being tried as an adult. In Illinois, if a minor has had his or her sixteenth birthday, there are certain situations that may activate criminal charges that would be adjudicated in the court system for adults. In fact, a 17-year-old is currently preparing a criminal defense regarding similar circumstances.
He is said to have been involved in a shooting. State law automatically transfers juvenile cases to adult court if a minor is 16 or older and is accused of committing aggravated battery with a firearm. Police say a gunshot victim had wounds in his leg and abdomen and identified the defendant as one of the suspects who shot him while trying to commit a robbery.
It takes a lot more than one person’s word to convict someone of a serious crime. Penalties under conviction for this crime in Illinois include a minimum 6-year jail sentence. Facing years behind bars would no doubt be emotionally traumatic for most teenagers.
An experienced Illinois criminal defense attorney can help a defendant explore his or her options to fight against such charges. There are often ways to poke holes in the prosecutor’s case. Relying on experienced legal representation means someone who’s freedom is at stake will have a personal advocate acting on his or her behalf to secure as positive an outcome as possible in court. Any concerned parent who wishes to seek guidance and support regarding a son or daughter facing criminal charges may request a consultation with a criminal law attorney.
