In the juvenile justice system, what is the term for transferring a juvenile to adult court?

The term for transferring a juvenile to adult court is "waiver." In the context of the juvenile justice system, a waiver refers to the legal process by which a juvenile court relinquishes its jurisdiction over a juvenile offender, allowing the case to be prosecuted in an adult court. This process emphasizes the differences in legal treatment and sentencing between juvenile and adult systems, recognizing that certain serious offenses may warrant adult-level consequences.

Waivers are typically based on factors such as the severity of the crime, the age of the juvenile, and their prior delinquent history. Courts consider these elements to determine whether the juvenile should be held accountable in the adult system. This aligns with the philosophy that some juveniles, particularly those who commit violent or grievous offenses, may lack the rehabilitative potential that juvenile sentencing aims to provide.

Understanding this concept is crucial for professionals in correctional administration as it affects how juvenile offenders are treated and the resources available for rehabilitation versus punitive measures.