This bill amends several sections of the Nebraska Revised Statutes to enhance the juvenile justice system, particularly regarding the jurisdiction of adult and juvenile courts, definitions of detention, and case transfer procedures. A significant change is the lowering of the age threshold for certain offenses from fourteen to twelve years, allowing juveniles aged twelve and older to be arraigned in county or district court for serious felonies. The bill also clarifies the definition of "detention" under the Nebraska Juvenile Code, specifying it as the temporary care of a juvenile in a facility designed to control their movement. Furthermore, it establishes a structured process for transferring cases from adult courts to juvenile courts, requiring timely hearings and decisions while emphasizing the importance of legal representation for the accused.

In addition to these changes, the bill outlines specific criteria for the detention of juveniles, stating that those charged with felonies as adults and aged sixteen or older may be held in adult facilities under certain conditions, while those under sixteen or classified as status offenders cannot be placed in secure adult detention. It introduces a new assessment process for probation officers to evaluate the need for detention or alternative placements, prioritizing the juvenile's best interests and community safety. The bill also establishes that no juvenile under the age of ten can be placed in detention and prohibits detention for reasons such as parental convenience or punishment. Overall, these amendments aim to improve the juvenile justice system's focus on rehabilitation and appropriate treatment while ensuring public safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 29-1816, 43-245, 43-246.01, 43-250, 43-251.01, 43-253, 43-260.01