A determinate sentence in Texas is awarded for certain serious offenses for juveniles. This is not similar to ordinary juvenile cases. It grants greater power to the judge or jury. The judge can send the juvenile away for a longer period of time. In some cases, it can carry through to adulthood. If your child is facing a serious charge, it’s important to speak with a determinate sentencing lawyer in Frisco right away. The stakes are high, and understanding what qualifies for this kind of sentence is the first step in building a defense.
1. The Purpose of Determinate Sentencing
The goal is to give serious offenders consequences that go beyond the juvenile system. These cases still start in juvenile court. But if the offense belongs to some specified categories, then the prosecutor may petition for a determinate sentence. If so granted, the juvenile may get up to 40 years of custody. It doesn’t necessarily imply that the juvenile remains in a youth facility all that long. At a specific age, normally 19, the court examines the case. Then, the judge will decide if the juvenile will be released, kept in youth custody, or remanded to prison as an adult.
2. Aggravated Kidnapping and Violent Offenses
Aggravated Kidnapping is among the crimes where a determinate sentence is possible. This is when the offender uses a lethal weapon, causes harm, or kidnaps for ransom or for sexual assault. These increase the offense. The same goes for Aggravated Assault and Aggravated Robbery, especially if the offender used an instrument or caused harm. These offenses typically involve victims who were threatened or seriously hurt. Because they were victimized by violence, they are eligible for extended sentencing.
3. Sexual Crimes Against Minors
Texas does not tolerate child sexual crime at all. Sexual Assault, Aggravated Sexual Assault, Indecency with a Child, and Criminal Solicitation of a Minor are all encompassed. These crimes can have long-term legal consequences. If a juvenile is charged with one of these crimes, the court may impose a determinate sentence to allow extra time for rehabilitation—or punishment. These cases often involve expert testimony, sensitive evidence, and advanced legal defenses.
4. Crimes Against Vulnerable Individuals
Another category is victims belonging to the vulnerable group. Physical Abuse of a Child, Elderly, or Disabled Person is a felony in Texas. Even when unintentional, such cases can also lead to a determinate sentence. The court takes into account the level of injury and the relationship between the accused and the victim. These cases have emotional implications and require strong legal defense and skillful handling of facts.
5. Drug and Arson Offenses
Not all that warrants a determinate sentence is violent. A Controlled Substance First-Degree Felony, like drug dealing or manufacture, can also warrant such sentencing. The quantity of the drug and intent to sell are crucial determinants. Similarly, Arson Involving Bodily Injury or Death is treated very seriously. If an individual was harmed or murdered as a result of the fire, the case is no longer one of property damage—it’s a life-or-death situation in the courtroom.
6. Murder and Serious Attempts
Not surprisingly, Attempted Murder and Attempted Capital Murder are also determinate sentencing offenses. They are two of the most serious crimes with which a juvenile can be charged. Legislation is inclined toward intent to kill as nearly so blameworthy as its realization, similarly, with Criminal Solicitation, most specifically where an attempt procurement of the third person’s commission of murder or other felony crime is an attempted crime. Such crimes invoke decades of incarceration depending on circumstance.
7. Other Aggravated Crimes
Finally, Intoxication Manslaughter comes into play also. This is usually the offense that comes in when a driver who is under the influence or drug-impaired kills someone by accident. Minors can be punished harshly if they are held liable, too. The judge considers the reality that an individual lost their life because of impaired or reckless actions.
Work With the Right Defense Attorney
If your son or daughter has been charged with one of the above serious crimes, you need competent legal aid. A qualified Frisco criminal defense lawyer familiar with juvenile and determinate sentence cases can save their future. They will be aware of the way the system works and the strategies that will reduce or bypass severe punishments. Every case differs. A sound legal defense might be the alternative between rehabilitation or lengthy imprisonment.
Determinate sentencing is the way Texas deals with the most severe juvenile crimes. It gives the court more options and longer sentences. Qualified offenses include violent crimes, sexual crimes, drug felonies, and crimes against vulnerable persons. If your child is charged with any of these, don’t waste time. Be aware of your options. Find an experienced lawyer. And fight for your child’s future.
