What is the main characteristic of a status offense?

The main characteristic of a status offense is that it refers to actions that are considered violations of the law solely because the individual is a minor. These offenses are not deemed illegal for adults. Examples include truancy, curfew violations, and underage drinking. The law treats these behaviors differently from other criminal offenses, recognizing that minors are still developing and may require guidance rather than punishment.

In this context, while certain behaviors like seizing illegal substances are illegal regardless of age, status offenses specifically apply to the actions of minors. This distinction highlights the legal system's approach to helping young people rather than imposing the same consequences that would be applied to adults. Thus, the primary focus is on the age of the accused, defining the offense as exclusively applicable to minors.