If you do not have any prior convictions or pending criminal cases against you, the chances are greater that you can avoid jail time or even participate in pretrial diversion programs that can result in the state dropping the charges against you.
When Can a Juvenile Be Charged in Adult Court?
The criminal court considers all 17-year-olds adults, but defendants ages 15 and up can be charged in adult court if they are accused of felonies, and 14-year-olds can also face adult criminal charges for the most serious crimes.