What is the difference between juvenile delinquency and criminal activity?

The main difference between juvenile delinquency and criminal activity is the age of the person committing the act. Juvenile delinquency typically refers to an act violated by someone who is not yet an adult and is under the age of eighteen. This type of offense is not considered to be criminal activity under Washington law. In contrast, criminal activity is when an individual eighteen years or older commits an unlawful act. Such unlawful acts are considered to be against the state and can result in serious consequences. Under criminal law, individuals can be incarcerated such as being sent to serve time in prison. When it comes to juvenile delinquency, the consequences are typically less severe. This is because juvenile law in Washington recognizes that young people may not have the same understanding or capacity as adults when it comes to making decisions and taking responsibility for their actions. For example, a juvenile offender may not be tried in a criminal court and instead could be placed in an alternative rehabilitation program or receive community service. Overall, the major difference between juvenile delinquency and criminal activity is the age of the person committing the act and the consequences they face in Washington. While juvenile delinquency is not criminal activity, it is still important to follow the law and be aware of the possible outcomes.

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What is the difference between juvenile delinquency and criminal activity?

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