What is the minimum age at which a minor can be held in the Department of Juvenile Justice?

The minimum age at which a minor can be held in the Department of Juvenile Justice is 13 years old. This age is significant because it aligns with the general understanding that children under this age typically have not yet reached a cognitive and moral development stage where they can comprehend the consequences of their actions fully. Many legal frameworks establish 13 as a threshold for criminal responsibility, recognizing that minors in this age group are capable of some level of understanding regarding their behavior, allowing the judicial system to intervene when necessary. This approach aims to balance accountability with the need for rehabilitation, acknowledging that younger minors may benefit more from intervention and support rather than punitive measures.