Juvenile Law

Juvenile law is a separate body of criminal law. The courts recognize that children generally do not have the capacity to make informed decisions about their behavior. As such, when children commit criminal offenses of varying degrees of seriousness, ranging from shoplifting or trespassing to something as serious as murder, these children are often treated differently in the justice system. For example, a juvenile offender may be offered a reduced penalty, an option to attend diversion programs as opposed to serving jail time, or the opportunity to expunge their criminal record upon turning 18 years old in order to avoid a permanent record. Juveniles also have specific rights under the law, including the right not to be questioned by law enforcement without permission from the child’s parents. Here you will find more information about juvenile law within the context of the criminal justice system.