What is the minimum age for juveniles to be charged as adults in Texas?

In Texas, the minimum age at which juveniles can be charged as adults is 17 years old. This is significant because it establishes a clear boundary between juvenile and adult legal systems. Under Texas law, individuals who are 17 or older can be tried as adults for certain offenses, particularly serious crimes like murder or aggravated assault, among others.

This distinction is rooted in the belief that individuals who have reached this age possess enough maturity and understanding to be held accountable for their actions in the same manner as adults. Consequently, those who are 16 years old or younger are typically subject to the juvenile justice system, which focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment.

By setting the age at 17, Texas aligns with several other states in its treatment of youthful offenders, thus contributing to ongoing discussions about juvenile justice reform and the age of criminal responsibility in the United States.