Definition of Minor (law)

In many countries such as India, the UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand a minor is presently defined as a person under the age of 18. In the USA, the term "minor" is not entirely synonymous with the term as a minor may be tried for a crime (and punished) as a juvenile or an adult. Also, in the USA, the age considered to be a minor varies from State to State, usually being 18 or 21.