Final answer:
A juvenile is typically someone under the age of 18, although this can vary based on jurisdiction and the crime committed. The treatment of juveniles in the criminal justice system is debated, with diversion programs often favored over incarceration. The definition of juvenile affects their rights and legal processes, including arrest and trial.
Step-by-step explanation:
For the purposes of making an arrest, the age considered to be a juvenile typically refers to anyone under the age of 18. This is because the legal definition of childhood, or minority, spans from birth until a person reaches adulthood - which is generally at 18 in the United States for many legal responsibilities. However, the precise age at which a person is treated as a juvenile in the criminal justice system can vary by state or jurisdiction and the nature of the crime. In some cases, juveniles committing serious crimes can be tried as adults, especially if the juvenile facilities have been ineffective in rehabilitation and the youth continues a life of crime.
Incarceration of juveniles is often debated due to its ineffectiveness, as it may increase the likelihood of future crimes and prevent juveniles from returning to school, thus diminishing the human capital that could deter criminal activity. Diversion programs are generally considered a more effective alternative to juvenile incarceration, providing community service and other restorative opportunities.
Moreover, the age norms established by the government influence various legal rites of passage, such as the age at which one is eligible for military service versus being able to purchase alcohol. In the way that the legal system defines juveniles and adults, it also looks at maturity and the capability of understanding the consequences of one's actions for the purposes of criminal proceedings. This distinction is crucial in determining the treatment and rights of those accused of crimes, including the process by which they are arrested and tried in the court of law.