This week’s #fridayfacts explains Raise the Age (RTA)—New York’s 2018 reform raising the age of criminal responsibility from 16 to 18.
Now, 16- and 17-year-olds accused of misdemeanors go to Family Court, while felony cases begin in a special Youth Part.
The reform reflects research showing that prosecuting youth as adults hinders rehabilitation.
Youth Part allows shorter sentences and sealing of convictions, but still holds young offenders accountable.
However, Vehicle & Traffic Law offenses remain in traditional criminal court, even for juveniles.