HB 543 Summary

• Revises discretionary direct file eligibility for juveniles to allow prosecution in adult court for children 14 or older (changed from 16 or 17) when charged with specified serious felonies including arson, sexual battery, robbery, kidnapping, murder, and weapons offenses.

• Prohibits filing charges against a child for their first offense unless the state attorney documents "compelling reasons" in writing.

• Requires state attorneys to file a written explanation addressing specific factors when filing an information to transfer a juvenile to adult court, including offense seriousness, child's record, rehabilitation prospects, and cost-effective alternatives.

• Establishes "reverse waiver" procedures allowing juveniles in adult court to request return to juvenile court if they prove by preponderance of evidence they could benefit from juvenile services, that prosecution in juvenile court serves their best interests, and that juvenile sanctions would protect the community.

• Effective July 1, 2013.