Legal Definitions - status offender

A status offender is a juvenile who commits an act that is considered an offense solely because of their age. If an adult were to commit the same act, it would not be illegal. These offenses are typically handled within the juvenile justice system and are designed to protect the well-being of minors, rather than to punish acts that are inherently criminal.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: Truancy

  A 14-year-old student, Alex, frequently skips school without permission from their parents or the school administration. Local law mandates school attendance for minors up to a certain age.

  Explanation: Alex is considered a status offender because missing school is only an offense due to their age and legal requirement to attend. An adult is not legally obligated to attend school, so this act would not be illegal for someone over the age of compulsory education.

• Example 2: Curfew Violation

  Maria, who is 16 years old, is found by police walking alone in a public park at 1:30 AM. The city has an ordinance that prohibits anyone under the age of 18 from being in public places between midnight and 5:00 AM without adult supervision.

  Explanation: Maria's presence in the park at that hour is an offense because of her age. An adult could legally be in the park at 1:30 AM without violating any law. Her status as a minor makes her subject to the curfew ordinance.

• Example 3: Underage Possession of Tobacco

  During a school event, a 17-year-old student, David, is caught with a vaping device containing nicotine. State law prohibits the sale or possession of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, to individuals under the age of 21.

  Explanation: David is a status offender because possessing the vaping device is illegal only due to his age. An individual who is 21 years or older could legally possess such a device. His status as a minor makes this act an offense.