Juvenile??

[dawnao]

What is the name of your state?GA

My 17 yr old nephew was charged with theft by shoplifting at Walmart for taking a $5 earring. My sister is concerned that this will impact is college application if he's charged as an adult. The police released him into her custody after posting a $12 bail. He has a court date of Aug 26 in Superior Court, does this mean he will be charged as an adult?

This is the first time he's ever been in trouble. He has good grades, involved in school activities and is a counselor for the YMCA. He did a very stupid thing however my sister does not want this one act of stupidity to effect the rest of his life.

What is the best way for her to approach the DA and Judge? What can my nephew expect in court? Can the judge/DA transfer this to juvenile court since he is only 17 and is his first offense?

Appreciate any advice you can give us.

Thanks

[snostar]

Originally Posted by dawnao

He has a court date of Aug 26 in Superior Court, does this mean he will be charged as an adult?

Yes.

What is the best way for her to approach the DA and Judge?

She should hire an attorney to handle her case.

Can the judge/DA transfer this to juvenile court since he is only 17 and is his first offense?

Yes, the prosecutors of superior court have complete discretion to determine whether or not the child (between age 13-17) is tried in superior court as an adult or is transferred to the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ).