NC OJD
- Aug 9
- 2 min read

New Law Ahead: House Bill 834 FAQs

In December 2019 “Raise the Age” law became effective. However, in June of this year, about 4 and a half years later, a part of the law has changed, and it aims to treat 16- and 17-year-olds charged with A thought E felonies as adults starting on December 1, 2024.

It’s crucial to stay informed about these changes and how they may impact North Carolina youth. Therefore, to help you navigate House Bill 834, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs). If you haven’t had a chance to go over the changes, take a look below ⬇

H834 FAQs

Where can I find the new law?

House Bill 834, also known as Session Law 2024-17, can be found on the General Assembly website.

House Bill 834 PDF: https://ncleg.gov/Sessions/2023/Bills/House/PDF/H834v6.pdf

When is it effective?

The substantive parts of the legislation that impact juvenile justice procedure are effective for offenses committed on or after December 1, 2024.

Does it repeal “Raise the Age”?

Yes, in part. For 16- or 17-year-olds charged with an A through E felony offense, jurisdiction will now start in adult criminal court.

What are the new procedures that impact jurisdiction?

For those 16- and 17-year-olds charged in adult criminal court, their cases may be removed to juvenile court jurisdiction upon mutual agreement by the prosecutor and defense attorney. Additionally, now 13-, 14- and 15-year-olds may be remanded from adult criminal court to juvenile delinquency court. There are also procedures to streamline the juvenile court indictment process and remove the right to appeal from these decisions.

What doesn’t it change?

16- and 17-year-olds charged with an F through I felony offense and non-motor vehicle misdemeanor offenses will still be processed in juvenile delinquency court. Nothing changes for all other youth charged with felony offenses. Their cases will continue to start in juvenile court and may be transferred through the transfer procedure.

Are there other changes that don’t affect jurisdiction?

Yes. There are new rules involving continued secure custody hearings, notification to schools of juvenile court involvement, joint and several liability for restitution, and the review by a prosecutor of the court counselor’s decision not to file a petition.

Where can I find out more information?