Juvenile Offenses
A juvenile crime is an unlawful act committed by a minor (an individual under the age of 18). This may be a status offense, which is only unlawful because of the minor's age. Underage drinking and curfew violations are examples of status offenses. Additional juvenile crimes are actions which are illegal no matter the individual's age. This would include such offenses as drug crimes, vandalism and arson.
The juvenile court system functions differently than state and federal court systems. In general, the juvenile justice system is built to give minors a chance at rehabilitation rather than punishment. However, certain crimes committed by minors above a certain age (depending upon the state) will qualify a juvenile to be tried as an adult; facing adult penalties.
Some examples of common juvenile crimes include the following:
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