Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

Which age must a juvenile be to face felony charges based on the information provided?

1. 13 years old

2. 14 years old

3. 15 years old

4. 16 years old

The correct answer is: 14 years old

The age at which a juvenile can face felony charges is typically set at 14 years old in many jurisdictions. At this age, the legal system recognizes that the individual may possess enough maturity to be held responsible for serious offenses, which are classified as felonies. Therefore, juveniles aged 14 and older can be charged and prosecuted similarly to adults, depending on the nature of the crime and specific state laws. While younger juveniles may be involved in delinquent activities, the threshold of 14 is significant because it marks a transition into a more serious legal category that acknowledges both the capability for greater insight into the consequences of actions and the potential for rehabilitation. Thus, the choice indicating 14 years old correctly aligns with these legal frameworks and practices concerning juvenile justice.