Does the juvenile court have jurisdiction over DUI charges?

The correct answer indicates that juvenile courts do not have jurisdiction over DUI charges for any juveniles. This is rooted in the legal framework that categorizes DUI offenses as criminal in nature, which typically falls under the jurisdiction of adult courts. In cases involving minors, DUI charges are generally treated more seriously given the potential risks involved, and these matters are thus handled in a way that aligns with the adult legal system.

Juvenile courts focus primarily on delinquency matters that are related to status offenses and behavior that is not typically considered criminal for adults. As a result, when it comes to DUI offenses, these typically remain within the purview of adult courts regardless of the minor’s specific circumstances, such as their age or possession of a driver’s license. This distinction underscores a broader principle in juvenile justice that emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment, reserving more serious offenses for adult proceedings.