What factors are used to determine a minor’s age under juvenile law?

In Virginia, juvenile criminals are those who are under the age of 18. Juveniles are typically treated differently than adults when it comes to the criminal justice system, as they are thought to have a greater capacity for rehabilitation and are protected from the harsh punishments that come with being tried as an adult. In order to determine a minor’s age under Virginia juvenile law, a few different factors are taken into account. First, the minor’s age at the time of the offense is taken into account. If the minor was 17 or younger at the time of the offense, then they will be considered a juvenile. Secondly, if the offense was committed prior to the minor’s 18th birthday, then they will be considered a juvenile. If the minor turns 18 after the offense was committed, but prior to the criminal case being filed, then they will still be considered a juvenile. This is because the intent of juvenile law is to protect minors from harsher punishments. Finally, if a minor has been emancipated prior to the date of the offense, then they will be considered an adult for the purpose of criminal prosecution. In conclusion, the determination of a minor’s age under juvenile law in Virginia involves taking into account the age of the minor at the time of the offense, the date the offense was committed, and the status of the minor’s emancipation.

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What factors are used to determine a minor’s age under juvenile law?

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