In Arizona and across the country, the line between juvenile and adult criminal law isn’t always as clear-cut as age alone. At Rideout Law Group, we frequently represent two types of clients facing unique legal challenges:
- Juveniles charged as adults for serious crimes, and
- Adults being prosecuted or held accountable for crimes they allegedly committed as minors.
Both scenarios involve complex legal principles—and both demand experienced defense.
When Juveniles Are Tried as Adults in Arizona
Under Arizona law (A.R.S. § 13-501), minors aged 14 and older can be charged as adults for certain felony offenses. These typically include:
- Homicide
- Armed robbery
- Sexual assault
- Drug trafficking
- Aggravated assault
In these cases, prosecutors may petition for a “transfer hearing”, or the law may mandate automatic adult prosecution depending on the offense.
The consequences of adult criminal prosecution for a minor can be life-altering. Unlike juvenile court—which prioritizes rehabilitation—adult court imposes adult penalties: prison time, permanent felony records, and even mandatory sentencing.
At Rideout Law Group, our juvenile defense attorneys fight hard to keep cases in juvenile court whenever possible, and to challenge the necessity or legality of adult prosecution.
Adults Charged for Crimes Committed as Minors
A less common—but equally serious—situation involves adults being charged or punished later in life for crimes they allegedly committed while underage.
Examples include:
- Delayed reporting of sexual assault or abuse
- Cold case DNA matches
- New charges stemming from juvenile court records
Arizona allows some crimes committed as a juvenile to be prosecuted in adult court if charges are filed later, especially in severe felony cases or where the statute of limitations is complex or suspended.
Additionally, adults may find that juvenile convictions resurface during background checks, military enlistment, or immigration proceedings—even if they were previously considered “sealed” or “expunged.”
We help clients seek set-asides under A.R.S. § 13-905, and in eligible cases, record sealing or expungement under A.R.S. § 13-911.
Why These Cases Require Specialized Defense
Whether it’s a 14-year-old facing adult sentencing or a 35-year-old confronting a juvenile-era accusation, these cases present unique challenges:
- Psychological maturity and mental health issues
- Lack of access to past juvenile records
- Complex evidentiary timelines
- Double jeopardy and due process arguments
Our attorneys are skilled in both juvenile law and adult criminal defense, making Rideout Law uniquely positioned to protect clients in these nuanced situations.
Defense That Looks at the Whole Picture
At Rideout Law Group, we believe every defendant deserves an advocate who considers not just the charge—but the person behind it, their age at the time, and their future at stake.
From our offices in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City, we represent juveniles and adults across Maricopa and Mohave counties, helping clients avoid unjust punishment and navigate complicated legal terrain.
📞 Charged with a juvenile or adult crime in Arizona? Don’t wait. Call Rideout Law Group at (833) 854-8181 or contact us online for a confidential case review.