A life of crime is a tragic thing; at the very least, it can result in significantly narrowed opportunities for a healthy life – at its worst, it can mean a life stripped of freedom entirely. When we consider criminal activity, we typically envision an offending adult, serious violent crimes, and a severe sentencing resulting in jail time. But what about those who haven’t yet reached adulthood? Today, as an introduction to our series on Juvenile Delinquency, we’ll be focusing on general information and the realities of underage criminality.
What is Juvenile Delinquency?
The Oxford English Dictionary defines juvenile delinquency as the “habitual committing of criminal acts or offenses by a young person, especially one below the age at which ordinary criminal prosecution is possible.” There are many factors that can contribute to juvenile delinquency, such as unstable or violent family conditions, peer influence, and neighborhood crime rates. While sentencing ranges in severity depending on the seriousness of the crime or offense, most sentences are geared toward remediation and rehabilitation in the hope of correcting behavior, rather than outright punishment.
Criminal Acts Vs. Status Offenses
Though media portrayal of adult criminal activity commonly involves violence, theft, murder, and rape, there is a broader list of transgressions that can result in juvenile delinquency. This is because there are many offenses specific to minors. Offenses that can only be committed by minors are referred to as status offenses, and range from simple and lightly punishable curfew violations to more serious instances involving drugs, alcohol, or the possession of a weapon.
Wisely Navigating Underage Crime
In matters of underage crime and offense, it’s highly advisable to seek legal counsel. These delicate matters can have life-altering effects on a young person’s future, so the help of a legal professional can be the difference between possibility and prosperity or waning potential and a downward trajectory. At The Law Offices of Mark Catanzaro, we have experience in navigating these difficult situations, so you can trust your loved ones to our care and expertise for the best possible outcome.