How many times can a minor file for youthful offender status?

Full question:

How many times can a minor file youthful offender status on traffic tickets? My son has been told numberous times that other kids have filed several times but the judge told my son he could not use youthful offender but one time- why did these other youths get to file it up to 5 times?

Answer:

A judge has discretion in allowing a minor to use youthful offender status. In Alabama, a person charged with a crime committed while a minor can be considered for youthful offender status if they meet certain criteria. If the court decides to arraign the minor as a youthful offender, no further action will be taken on the indictment unless the court orders otherwise. If the court chooses not to allow youthful offender status, the case proceeds as a regular indictment. This means that while some minors may file for youthful offender status multiple times, a judge may limit others based on their discretion and the specifics of each case.

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.

FAQs

A youthful offender is typically someone who is charged with a crime while under the age of 18 and may be eligible for special treatment under the law, such as reduced penalties or rehabilitation programs. A juvenile offender, on the other hand, refers to any minor who has committed a crime, regardless of whether they qualify for youthful offender status. The distinction often lies in the legal options available and the potential for a more lenient approach to rehabilitation for youthful offenders.