Pressing Charges Against a Minor in Nevada: Steps, Age of Responsibility, Juvenile Court Jurisdiction

If you’re wondering whether you can press charges against a minor in Nevada, the answer is yes.

However, there are specific steps you need to follow. There are also some nuances which we’ll go over below.

If you’re considering pressing charges against a minor in Nevada, it’s important to understand that not all cases will be heard in juvenile court. In some cases, a minor may be tried as an adult, which means they could face more severe consequences.

If you or a loved one is facing juvenile criminal charges in Nevada, it is important to seek the guidance of an experienced attorney.

The Defenders law firm can help you navigate the complex juvenile justice system and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact our office today for help with your juvenile criminal case.

Age of Criminal Responsibility for Minors in Nevada

In Nevada, the age of criminal responsibility is 18 years old. This means that individuals under the age of 18 are considered minors and will be tried in juvenile court for any criminal charges.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

Minors who commit serious or violent crimes may be charged as adults, regardless of their age. This decision is usually made by the prosecutor or a judge based on the severity of the crime and the minor’s criminal history.

For example, if a minor is 16 or 17 years old and has been accused of a serious crime like murder or sexual assault, they can be charged as an adult.

If the minor was involved in a felony DUI, they will also be tried as an adult in criminal court.

Additionally, if a minor has a history of delinquent behavior, they may also be charged as an adult.

Jurisdiction of Juvenile Courts in Nevada

In Nevada, the juvenile court has exclusive jurisdiction over minors who have committed delinquent acts.

Delinquent acts are defined as acts or omissions forbidden by law, which would be considered crimes if committed by an adult. Juvenile courts also have jurisdiction over status offenses, which are actions that would not be considered crimes if committed by an adult, such as truancy or curfew violations.

In cases where a minor is accused of committing a serious or violent crime, the prosecutor may petition to have the minor tried as an adult. This process is known as a transfer hearing, and the court will consider factors such as the age of the minor, the severity of the offense, and the minor’s criminal history when making a decision.

If a minor is found guilty of a delinquent act in juvenile court, they may face a range of consequences, including probation, community service, placement in a juvenile detention center, or participation in a rehabilitation program. The goal of the juvenile justice system in Nevada is to rehabilitate minors and prevent future criminal behavior, rather than simply punishing them for their actions.

Steps for Pressing Charges Against a Minor in Nevada

If you want to press charges against a minor in Nevada, there are certain steps that you need to follow.

Filing a Complaint

The first step in pressing charges against a minor is to file a complaint with the appropriate law enforcement agency. You can file a complaint with the police department or the sheriff’s office in the county where the offense occurred. You will need to provide the details of the offense and any evidence that you have to support your claim.

Once the complaint has been filed, the law enforcement agency will investigate the matter and determine whether there is enough evidence to support the charges against the minor. If they believe that there is enough evidence, they will forward the case to the district attorney’s office for prosecution.

Arrest of the Minor

If there is probable cause, the minor will be arrested and taken into custody. The minor will then go through the juvenile court process.

Adjudication Hearing

Similar to an adult trial, a minor will have an adjudication hearing where evidence will be presented and the judge will determine whether the minor is guilty or not guilty of the charges. If found guilty, the minor may face consequences such as probation, community service, or placement in a juvenile detention center.

If your case goes to juvenile court, you may want to consider hiring an experienced juvenile criminal defense attorney. The Defenders is a team of experienced criminal defense attorneys who can help you navigate the juvenile court process and protect your rights. They can help you understand the charges against the minor, the potential consequences, and your legal options.

Overall, pressing charges against a minor in Nevada can be a complex process. It’s important to follow the proper procedure and seek legal advice if you need it.

How The Defenders Law Firm Can Help in a Juvenile Criminal Case

If you are facing criminal charges as a minor in Nevada, it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side.

The Defenders can help in a juvenile criminal case by providing legal representation to the minor. Our experienced attorneys can help the minor understand their rights, navigate the legal system, and work towards a favorable outcome. We can also help negotiate plea deals, represent the minor in court, and provide support and guidance throughout the legal process.

When it comes to defending minors in criminal cases, our attorneys have a variety of defense strategies at our disposal. We may be able to argue that the evidence against you was obtained illegally or that the prosecution has not met its burden of proof.

We may also be able to negotiate with the prosecution to have your charges reduced or dismissed. If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to trial and fight for your rights in court.

Our attorneys will work closely with you to develop a strong defense strategy that takes into account your unique circumstances and the specific charges you are facing. We will also work to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Contact our office today for a free case evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions