This bill amends existing law regarding the rights of juvenile defendants who choose to be tried as adults. It allows juveniles aged 14 and older, as well as those under 14 charged with murder, to elect to transfer their cases to the appropriate court with jurisdiction, subject to court approval. The bill mandates that a hearing be conducted to inform the juvenile of the differences in sentencing and consequences between the juvenile and adult justice systems, ensuring that the election is made knowingly, willingly, and voluntarily.

Upon approval of the transfer, the case will proceed as if it originated in the Criminal Part, with a presumption that any custodial sentence will be served in a juvenile facility until the age of 21, unless specific conditions warrant a transfer to an adult facility. Additionally, the bill allows for the possibility of remanding the case back to the Family Part if it is determined that the juvenile's best interests and public safety would be better served by accessing juvenile programs. This legislation aims to provide procedural rights similar to those afforded to juveniles who are involuntarily waived to adult court.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:4A-27