What is the legal definition of a juvenile in Maine?

In Maine, the legal definition of a juvenile is a person who has not attained the age of 18. This definition aligns with how many jurisdictions in the United States categorize individuals as minors, meaning they are not yet considered adults for legal purposes. This distinction is important because it influences how the legal system treats individuals under 18, particularly in matters related to juvenile justice, accountability, and rehabilitation.

The other options do not capture the specific age criteria set by Maine law. A definition stating a person who has attained the age of 18 would indicate adulthood, which is contrary to the juvenile classification. Similarly, defining a juvenile as someone under 21 would be too broad, as it extends beyond the conventional definition used in juvenile law. Lastly, indicating a person over the age of 16 does not accurately represent the threshold for juvenile status in Maine, as it does not encompass all individuals under 18.