Fort Worth Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorneys

Serving Families in Tarrant County

Obtaining legal counsel is imperative for anyone charged with a crime in Texas. However, it is especially important for juveniles accused of a crime, because juveniles often have options available to avoid criminal conviction and keep their records clean. In cases alleging serious crimes, the state may seek to prosecute a juvenile as an adult in the regular court system.

In Tarrant County, juvenile cases are heard by a special juvenile court. In these cases, the goal is to rehabilitate the juvenile even where he is found responsible for the alleged conduct.

Can Juveniles Be Tried as Adults?

In Texas, juveniles may be tried as adults for certain serious offenses. This process, known as "certification" or "transfer," typically applies to minors aged 14 or older who are accused of violent felonies or repeat offenses. The juvenile court will hold a hearing to determine whether the minor should be transferred to the adult court system. Factors considered include the severity of the crime, the juvenile's age, criminal history, and whether rehabilitation in the juvenile system is deemed likely.

If certified as an adult, the juvenile faces the same penalties as an adult, which could include long-term imprisonment. However, the defense can present arguments against transfer to emphasize the potential for rehabilitation in the juvenile system. A strong defense at this stage is critical, as being tried in adult court carries more severe consequences than the juvenile justice system, which focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

At Blake & Blake, LLP, our goal is always to first seek dismissal of the charges. Where dismissal is not possible, we seek outcomes that keep the case off the juvenile’s record. Even minor theft charges can be a big problem later in life because theft is considered a crime of moral turpitude and can limit future educational, employment, and licensing opportunities.

If your child or relative is facing criminal charges, the Fort Worth juvenile criminal defense attorneys at Blake & Blake, LLP can help. Our goal is always to get charges dismissed. We work to make sure your child’s record stays as clean as possible so that their future is not harmed by mistakes they made as a child.

Call us at (817) 497-8889 to discuss your case.