How do criminal cases involving minors differ from cases involving adults?

Criminal cases involving minors, who are typically defined as individuals under the age of 18, differ from cases involving adults in several ways. The justice system in many countries has a separate legal framework for handling juvenile offenses, known as the juvenile justice system, which is designed to be more rehabilitative than punitive. The procedures in juvenile court are generally more informal and less adversarial than in adult court. In some cases, a minor may be tried in adult court, but this is generally reserved for more serious offenses.

Additionally, there are several differences in the penalties that can be imposed in juvenile versus adult court. Minors may be subject to a range of consequences, including probation, community service, fines, and detention in juvenile facilities. In some cases, a minor may be placed in a juvenile correctional facility until they reach the age of majority. However, the emphasis is generally on rehabilitation rather than punishment. In contrast, adults may face more severe consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and other penalties.