Until recently, North Carolina stood alone as the only state in the nation still automatically charging 16- and 17-year-old juveniles as adults in the criminal justice system. The Juvenile Justice Reinvestment Act, also known as "Raise the Age," changed the law when enacted as part of the 2017 state budget. Beginning December 1, 2019, 16- and 17-year-old juveniles who commit crimes in North Carolina are no longer automatically charged in the adult criminal justice system.
This manuscript explores many of the new legal requirements, exceptions and issues related to the implementation of the "Raise the Age" legislation.
Gain insight as panelists from all facets of the juvenile justice system examine the cutting-edge issues, and receive practical examples and tips for success in navigating the changes in the law.
A substantial body of research supports the assertion that both youthful offenders and society benefit when persons under 18 years old are treated in the juvenile justice system rather than the adult criminal justice system. North Carolina attorneys and judges are forging the path to ensure that this holds true for North Carolina in the future.
ASSOCIATED CLE PROGRAM
Manuscript originated from Moving Forward Together: Juvenile Justice in North Carolina (2020 Juvenile Justice & Children's Rights Section CLE), May 21, 2020