In Massachusetts, a youthful offender is a juvenile aged 14 to 17 who has been charged with a serious felony, such as murder, armed robbery, or assault with intent to murder. Unlike standard juvenile cases, youthful offender cases are transferred to adult court, which means the individual faces adult criminal penalties. This designation is made by a judge after a hearing where the prosecutor must prove that the offense is severe enough to warrant adult prosecution.
To be designated as a youthful offender in Massachusetts, the following elements must be present:
Juvenile cases in Massachusetts are heard in the Juvenile Court, which has multiple locations across the state. These courts handle cases involving delinquency, care and protection, and youthful offender matters. For instance:
If convicted as a youthful offender, the individual faces adult criminal penalties, which can include:
The severity of the penalties underscores the importance of legal representation and the potential long-term consequences of a youthful offender charge.
With years of specialized experience, The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson has established itself as the go-to Boston criminal defense attorney in Massachusetts.
Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You
Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500
Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034
Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support
Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm
If you or a loved one is facing a youthful offender charge in Massachusetts, time is of the essence. The legal process moves swiftly, and every moment counts. Failing to act immediately can result in irreversible consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and a permanent criminal record. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the complexities of youthful offender cases and can mount a vigorous defense on your behalf. Delaying action could be the difference between a second chance and a lifetime of regret. Contact a qualified attorney now to ensure your rights are protected and to fight for the best possible outcome.
A youthful offender is an individual aged 14 to 17 at the time of the alleged offense.
Yes, a juvenile can be tried as an adult in certain circumstances, but being designated as a youthful offender specifically means the case is transferred to adult court due to the severity of the offense.
Serious felonies such as murder, armed robbery, and assault with intent to murder can lead to a youthful offender designation.
While rehabilitation programs may be available, a youthful offender conviction results in adult criminal penalties, which can include imprisonment and a permanent criminal record.
Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial. They can challenge the transfer to adult court, negotiate plea deals, or represent you during trial to achieve the best possible outcome.
Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You
Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500
Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034
Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support
Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm
The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case
Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney. Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation. Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.
Our Locations
Boston Office
(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)
Salem Office
Quick Links
The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case
Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney. Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation. Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.
Our Locations
Boston Office
(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02108 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)
Salem Office
Quick Links