HB 461 - Prosecution of Juveniles

• Raises minimum age for discretionary direct file to adult court from 14 to 14 or 15 years old for specified violent and serious felonies, while allowing any age for 16-17 year olds at state attorney's discretion.

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

• Requires state attorneys to file written explanation addressing specific criteria when deciding to transfer a juvenile to adult court, including offense severity, child's record, public safety needs, and rehabilitation prospects.

• Establishes "reverse waiver" process allowing juveniles in adult court to request return to juvenile court if they prove by preponderance of evidence that juvenile services could reduce reoffending, their best interests favor juvenile court, and juvenile sanctions provide adequate community protection.

• Takes effect July 1, 2014.