The Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA) lets many people charged with crimes committed between ages 17 and 26 plead, complete probation, and have the case dismissed without a conviction. The record becomes nonpublic. For offenses committed at 24 or 25, the prosecutor must agree.
For young people, one mistake shouldn’t define the rest of their life. Michigan’s Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA) is one of the most powerful tools available to protect a young person’s record.
How HYTA works
- The young person pleads guilty to an eligible offense, and the court assigns them to youthful trainee status instead of entering a conviction.
- They complete probation and any conditions, which may include classes, community service or treatment.
- When they succeed, the case is dismissed without a conviction, and the record is nonpublic.
Eligibility
- Age: the offense must have been committed on or after the 17th birthday and before the 26th birthday. For ages 24 and 25, the prosecutor must consent.
- Excluded offenses generally include felonies punishable by life, major controlled substance offenses, traffic offenses and most criminal sexual conduct offenses.
- The judge decides. Even when someone is eligible, HYTA is up to the court, and a well-prepared request matters.
Why a lawyer makes a difference
HYTA is discretionary. We present the young person’s background, school, work and plans in a way that shows the judge they deserve a second chance, and we negotiate with prosecutors when their consent is required. See other programs that can keep a conviction off your record.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for HYTA in Michigan?
Generally, people who commit an eligible offense on or after their 17th birthday and before their 26th birthday. For offenses committed at age 24 or 25, the prosecutor must consent. Some serious offenses are excluded.
Does HYTA show up on a background check?
If you successfully complete HYTA, the case is dismissed without a conviction and the record is nonpublic. It is generally not visible to employers and landlords, though law enforcement and courts can still see it.
What happens if I violate HYTA probation?
The court can revoke HYTA status and enter a conviction. Taking the conditions seriously is essential.