A geographic area subject to a particular law or court and in which particular law enforcement agencies and individuals have legal authority.
Jurisdiction
Participation in illegal behavior by a minor who falls under a statutory age limit.
Delinquency
Conduct that is illegal only because the child is underage (“CHINS” or “PINS”)
Status Offense
A youth who falls under an age range specified by state law. The age range varies from state to state.
Juvenile
Power of the state to act on behalf of the child and provide care and protection equivalent to that of a parent.
(Legal and moral foundation of the JJS)
Parens Patriae