Which term is used to describe a minor who violates laws before turning 18?

The term "Delinquent Minor" specifically refers to a minor who has committed an act that would be considered a crime if done by an adult. This label is used in the context of juvenile justice systems to identify youth who engage in illegal behaviors before reaching the age of adulthood. Delinquency encompasses a range of activities, from petty offenses to more serious crimes, and highlights the need for intervention and rehabilitation rather than punishment, which is a key difference from how adults are treated under the law.

The other terms present various contexts for youth but do not accurately define a minor who has broken laws. "At-risk Youth" refers to children and adolescents who are considered to have a higher chance of engaging in delinquent behavior due to factors such as socio-economic status, family issues, or peer influences, but it does not imply that they have committed any legal infractions. "Reformed Minor" suggests a minor who has changed their behavior for the better, which does not address the issue of delinquency at all. "Behaviorally Challenged Minor" implies that the minor struggles with certain behavioral issues, which may or may not be related to legal violations and does not specifically denote unlawful activity. By focusing specifically on the legal context of behavior, "Delin