Juvenile offenders in Texas are never tried as adults. True or False?

The statement that juvenile offenders in Texas are never tried as adults is false. In Texas, there are specific circumstances under which a juvenile can be tried as an adult, particularly when they are accused of serious crimes. This process is known as "certification."

If a juvenile is 14 years of age or older and commits a felony, law enforcement and prosecutors have the option to seek certification to transfer the case from juvenile court to adult court. This can happen for a range of serious offenses, including violent crimes and certain repeat offenses.

The legal framework allows for this transition, reflecting the belief that some juvenile offenders may pose a significant risk to public safety or may need stricter legal consequences that the juvenile system cannot adequately provide. The criteria for certification and the process involved ensure that such decisions are taken seriously and involve consideration of the juvenile's age, the seriousness of the offense, and other relevant factors.

This understanding of Texas law clarifies why the correct answer is that the statement is false, as there are indeed provisions for juveniles to be tried as adults under specified circumstances.