Adolescent Offender
Learn more about the new classification created by the Raise the Age legislation.
Raise the Age
Improving the Way New York's Justice System Treats Young People
The FY 2018 Budget included legislation to raise the age of criminal responsibility to 18 years of age. New York was previously one of only two states that automatically prosecuted 16- and 17-year-olds as adults. This injustice unfairly punished youth and prevented them from receiving the services they need to rehabilitate themselves and re-integrate into their communities. New York’s youth who commit non-violent crimes will now receive age-appropriate housing and programming to lower their risk of re-offense.
ADVANCING SOCIAL JUSTICE FOR NEW YORK’S YOUTH
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Age-Appropriate Services
Learn more about programs and services available for justice-involved minors.
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Resources
Find out more about the Raise the Age program in New York State.
Raise the Age
Age of Criminal Responsibility Raised to 18-years-old
All 16- and 17-year-olds who commit non-violent crimes will receive the intervention and evidence-based treatment they need.
Specialized Juvenile Detention Facilities
Rather than adult jails and prisons, young people will be placed in specialized juvenile detention facilities certified by the State Office of Children and Family Services, in conjunction with the State Commission of Correction.
Phased-In Implementation
The Raise the Age legislation will take effect for 16-year-olds on October 1, 2018 and 17-year-olds on October 1, 2019.
Progress
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Request to Seal Records
If you have a criminal conviction and have remained crime-free for 10 years you may be eligible to request to have your records sealed.