Trying Juveniles As Adults: A Note on New Mexico’s Recent Experience

Abstract
Much has been written and said about the juvenile crime wave that supposedly has swept over the United States during the past three decades. In response to this perceived dramatic rise in crime rates, many states have adopted more severe policies and sanctions for dealing with serious juvenile offenders. One particular approach to sanctioning serious juvenile offenders is to transfer them to adult court. This article will explore the recent experience of one state, New Mexico, in trying juveniles as adults.