What age range typically defines a juvenile in most jurisdictions?

The age range that typically defines a juvenile in most jurisdictions is individuals under the age of 18. This is a widely accepted standard across the United States and in many other countries, as it aligns with the legal definitions found in statutes concerning juvenile delinquency, rehabilitation, and the rights of minors. Defining a juvenile as someone under 18 reflects a legal recognition that people within this age group often lack the full capacity for adult reasoning and decision-making.

This classification is significant because it determines how a person is treated within the legal system. Juveniles may be tried in juvenile courts, which have different procedures and penalties compared to adult courts. The focus is often more on rehabilitation than punishment, with an understanding that young people are still developing and can change their behavior with appropriate support and interventions.

While there are varying definitions in certain contexts or specific laws, the general consensus leans toward the age of 18 as the threshold for juvenile status, which is why this answer is correct. Other age ranges mentioned in the choices reflect variations that may pertain to certain laws or jurisdictions but do not align with the most common definition found in juvenile law.