Full question:
What is the punishment for a 16 year old in Texas for armed robbery?
- Category: Criminal
- Subcategory: Minors
- Date:
- State: Texas
Answer:
In Texas, a juvenile is defined as someone aged at least 10 but under 17 when they commit an act of delinquent conduct. If a 16-year-old is charged with armed robbery, they may face juvenile court proceedings. The court can handle the case informally, allowing the juvenile to return home, or formally, where they are afforded the same rights as adults charged with crimes.
In some cases, the county may request to certify the juvenile as an adult, which means they would be treated as an adult for criminal purposes. If the juvenile is adjudicated for delinquent conduct, several outcomes are possible:
- The juvenile may be placed on probation.
- The juvenile may be sent to the Texas Youth Commission (TYC) with an indeterminate sentence (for felony offenses).
- The juvenile may be sent to TYC with a determinate sentence (for certain offenses).
A juvenile placed on probation must complete it by age 18. If sent to TYC with an indeterminate sentence, they must be discharged by age 19. Those with a determinate sentence may be transferred to adult prison based on behavior and progress.
Armed robbery, classified as aggravated robbery in Texas, is a first-degree felony. According to Texas Family Code 54.04, if a juvenile is found to have engaged in such conduct, the court may impose a commitment to TYC with a possible transfer to adult facilities for up to 40 years, depending on the offense severity.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.