Adult Offender
/ˈædʌlt əˈfɛndər/
Definitions
- (n.) An individual aged 18 or older who has been convicted or is accused of committing a criminal offense.
The adult offender was sentenced to five years in prison.
- (n.) A person tried and sentenced in the criminal justice system as an adult, rather than as a juvenile.
As an adult offender, he faced trial in the superior court.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
The term typically distinguishes individuals subject to adult criminal law from those processed under juvenile law; usage is significant in context of sentencing and jurisdiction.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.