Under juvenile law, how is a "status offense" defined?

A "status offense" is defined as conduct that is only considered an offense because of the youth's age. This includes behaviors such as truancy, curfew violations, running away from home, and underage drinking. These actions are not offenses for adults; they become offenses specifically due to the individual's status as a minor.

This definition is critical in the context of juvenile law because it recognizes that certain behaviors are not inherently unlawful, but rather are deemed inappropriate or unacceptable for minors. In essence, status offenses address issues concerning the welfare and guidance of the youth, rather than treating them solely as criminal acts. The emphasis on age differentiates these behaviors from criminal acts, which are universally recognized as offenses, regardless of the age of the perpetrator.