The Holmes Youthful Trainee Act, commonly referred to as HYTA, provides individuals between the ages of 17 and 25* with a second chance. Under the act, an individual charged with a crime** may petition the court for “status” as a Youthful Trainee.
Stated plainly, if the court grants the individual status under the HYTA, he or she will be placed on probation. If he or she successfully completes the probationary term, the criminal conviction will not be entered onto his or her record. The court will dismiss all charges and his or her criminal record will remain clean.
There are extreme advantages related to HYTA. Having a criminal conviction on your record may cost you your job opportunities, education opportunities, and more.
If you would like to learn more about this subject, please contact Tripp, Tagg & Storrs, Attorneys at Law, call 269-948-2900 or 269-945-2242 or visit www.tts.law .
*In 2020 PA 396, the legislature amended the age range in the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA), MCL 762.11 et seq. As a result:
- Until October 1, 2021: To be eligible for HYTA, a person must have committed an offense on or after their 17th birthday and before their 24th birthday. MCL 762.11(1).
- After October 1, 2021: To be eligible for HYTA, a person must have committed an offense on or after their 18th birthday and before their 26th birthday. MCL 762.11(2). If the offense was committed when the person was 21 or older, the prosecutor must consent to the client’s HYTA status. The prosecutor must also consult with the victim if the person committed certain offenses. Id.
**Certain crimes, such as murder, kidnapping, imprisonment for life crimes, major controlled substance offenses, traffic offenses, and some sex crimes are not eligible for HYTA.
This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult an attorney before making important decisions regarding your individual situation.