What age defines a juvenile in the context of an investigation for individuals who are not active duty military?

In the context of investigations concerning individuals who are not active duty military, the age that typically defines a juvenile is 18. This is consistent with various legal frameworks, including federal law and many state laws, which identify 18 as the age at which a person is considered an adult for the purposes of legal proceedings.

At 18, individuals generally lose protections and different treatment accorded to minors, such as those found in juvenile courts which emphasize rehabilitation rather than punishment. This legal distinction is important in investigative contexts, particularly when determining the appropriate procedures, rights, and interventions for individuals suspected of being involved in criminal activity. Understanding this age threshold ensures that law enforcement personnel apply the correct legal standards and protections when dealing with young individuals during investigations.