What is the legal definition of a juvenile under Georgia law?

Under Georgia law, a juvenile is defined as an individual who is under 17 years of age. This definition is crucial as it sets the age limit for the application of juvenile law within the state. The juvenile justice system in Georgia is designed to address the behavior and rehabilitation of young individuals who have not yet reached the age of 17, recognizing their developmental stage and potential for reform.

By establishing this age threshold, the law differentiates between juvenile offenders and adults within the criminal justice system, facilitating a focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment for those under this age. This legal framework acknowledges that juveniles may have different needs and circumstances that warrant a specialized approach when it comes to legal proceedings.

The other age options do not accurately represent the legal definition under Georgia law, as they either raise the age of juvenile status or set it too low, which does not align with the established parameters aimed at protecting and rehabilitating young individuals involved in the justice system.