Radford & Rome LLP congratulates founding partner Willie Radford on being interviewed by 23ABC (KERO) reporter Madi Vollmer as a legal expert in a Bakersfield story examining whether teens accused in the Foods Co. shooting could face adult-court prosecution. See KERO 23 ABC News Bakersfield for more details.

Attorney Radford explained the complicated process regarding juvenile to adult court transfers. Courts look closely at the offense and the youth’s circumstances, and they can be “generally reluctant” to transfer a juvenile—though it “does happen,” particularly as allegations become more serious and violent. Age is a critical factor, and the courts will look more closely if the defendant youth’s eligibility is established to see if a transfer is suitable.

A request to move a case from juvenile court to criminal court is litigated in a transfer hearing, where the petitioner bears the burden by clear and convincing evidence. The decision regarding suitability for transfer is based on several factors listed in the Welfare and Institutions Code that governs juvenile proceedings (including “criminal sophistication,” rehabilitation prospects, prior history, and the gravity of the alleged offense).

Radford & Rome LLP appreciates 23ABC’s commitment to getting accurate legal context into the public conversation, and the firm is honored to be recognized as a trusted source for clear, practical analysis on high-stakes criminal and juvenile matters. As a firm with extensive serious juvenile criminal experience, including with high-stakes and highly publicized homicide and robbery cases, it’s our goal to provide the public with accurate information whenever possible to make sure everyone is treated fairly and knows what to expect if charged.

This post is for general information only and is not legal advice.