House Bill 1271: Direct File Signed into Law

Ever wonder what happened to the Direct File bill we got to watch during Advocacy Day? It has just been signed into law by Governor Hickenlooper! What a great success! Today, every child accused of a crime facing adult court has the right to ask a judge to decide which system of justice--juvenile or adult--the case belongs in, and the right to present witnesses and other evidence in court. Juvenile court judges will decide whether 14-15 year olds should be transferred to adult criminal court. Criminal court judges will decide whether 16-17 year olds who are direct filed should be transferred to juvenile court. This is called a "reverse-transfer" hearing and provides essential due process protections. Please thank Governor Hickenlooper for signing this important bill. Please thank the sponsors of House Bill 1271, who led with civility and strength in the face of strong opposition: Representative BJ Nikkel, 303-866-2907, rep.nikkel@gmail.com Representative Beth McCann, 303-866-2959, beth.mccann.house@state.co.us Senator Tim Neville, 303-866-4859, tim.neville.senate@state.co.us Senator Angela Giron, 303-866-4878, angela.giron.senate@state.co.us