What age defines a juvenile under the law?

Under Wisconsin law, a juvenile is defined as any individual who is less than 18 years old. This definition is important within the context of the juvenile justice system, where individuals under this age may be treated differently compared to adults regarding legal proceedings, sentencing, and rehabilitation. The juvenile system is designed to provide opportunities for education and reform rather than simply punishment, recognizing that young people may still be developing mentally and emotionally.

Understanding this age threshold helps clarify the legal rights and responsibilities of minors and informs law enforcement, social services, and educational institutions about how to appropriately interact with individuals in this age group. The other age definitions listed do not align with Wisconsin's statutory requirements for defining a juvenile, which underscores the significance of acknowledging the correct age limit for applying juvenile law.