Status Offenses

Status offenses are behaviors that are considered problematic or unacceptable for minors but are not illegal for adults. These can include actions like truancy (skipping school), running away from home, curfew violations, and underage drinking. Essentially, these offenses arise because of the individual’s age, not the behavior itself. The goal of addressing status offenses is often to provide guidance and support to young people rather than punishment, as they highlight issues that may need parental or societal intervention to ensure the well-being and development of the youth involved.