There are two reasons why a minor might be charged as an adult. The first is they’re 17. Even though you’re not considered an adult until your 18^th birthday for most things – i.e. voting, buying tobacco or a weapon – in the Georgia criminal justice system you are an adult at your 17^th birthday.

The other reason is the crime the child is charged with. Under OCGA § 15-11-560 a child that is at least 13 will be charged as an adult in Superior Court if they are alleged to have committed certain crimes. These crimes include murder, rape, aggravated sodomy, aggravated child molestation, aggravated sexual battery, armed robbery with a firearm, and aggravated assault or battery against a police officer. However, there are circumstances that allow these types of cases to be sent back to Juvenile Court.

Every case is different and if your child has been charged as an adult it is imperative to seek out an experienced attorney. Give us a call for a free case consultation.