April 6, 2000

Judge Pat Hess
Juvenile Court
Anderson County Courthouse
Clinton, Tn 37716

RE: Juvenile Traffic Offenders

Dear Judge Hess,

Enclosed for your information is the Department of Safety's position.

Of course, you know that taking these matters to Juvenile Court prevents law enforcement and the general public (including insurance companies and civil litigants) from knowing a juvenile's traffic history because it will no longer be a public record. Further, since Juvenile Court dispositions are not "convictions" we will not be able to use the MVHO law as we do for adults and the Department of Safety will not revoke licenses for "points".

Previous practice treated juveniles assuming adult responsibilities by becoming automobile drivers as adults, and provided adult standards of accountability.

Your new policy gives juveniles added protection from the consequences of their offenses. If that was the Court's intention, it will be an effective policy.

Very truly yours,

James N. Ramsey
District Attorney General

JNR/tg

Cc: Jerry Creasey, County Commission Chairman