Serious offences that have a maximum sentence for an adult of 14 years or more, and some violent and sexual offences.
Grave crimes are:
- sexual or violent crimes that have a maximum sentence for an adult of 14 years or more;
- certain sexual offences – sexual assault;
- child sex offences;
- sexual activity with child family member;
- inciting a child family member to engage in sexual activity.
- certain firearms offences with mandatory minimum sentences.
Children charged with a grave crime may have their case sent to the Crown Court if there is a real prospect, if convicted, they will receive a custodial sentence of substantially more than two years (the maximum sentence in the youth court.
See Which Court?