The waiver into adult court for juveniles age 15 and older is contingent on what factor?

• A. The offense
• B. Automatic at age 15
• C. It depends on the juvenile's preference
• D. It is never allowed

Answer: (A)

The factor that determines waiver is the offense itself. In Wisconsin, whether a juvenile who is 15 or older is transferred to adult court depends on the nature and severity of the crime and the statutory criteria for waiver, not simply on age. The offense sets the eligibility for waiver and guides the prosecutor or court in deciding whether to move the case to adult court.

The other options don’t fit because waiver is not automatic at age 15, it isn’t based on the juvenile’s personal preference, and it isn’t never allowed—the law does provide for waiver for certain offenses.