What is the minimum age for an individual to be charged as an adult for a crime?

The minimum age for an individual to be charged as an adult for a crime is 18 years old. This is due to the legal principle that recognizes 18 as the age of majority, at which individuals are considered legally responsible for their actions. Before this age, individuals are generally treated under the juvenile justice system, which focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment. Charging someone as an adult carries more severe penalties and a different legal process, reflecting society's understanding of maturity and accountability.

Thus, when individuals under the age of 18 commit offenses, they are typically subject to the jurisdiction of juvenile courts, which are designed to handle cases involving minors. The variation in laws across different jurisdictions might allow for minors to be charged as adults under specific circumstances, but the standard age of majority remains at 18 in most legal contexts.