At what age may a juvenile be exempt from criminal responsibility?

In Louisiana, a juvenile can be exempt from criminal responsibility at the age of 10. The law recognizes that children below this age may not possess the mental capacity or understanding necessary to form the intent required for criminal behavior. This principle is rooted in the understanding that very young children are still developing cognitively and emotionally, and are therefore less able to grasp the consequences of their actions or the moral standards expected in society.

While the ages of 12, 14, and 16 are relevant in other aspects of juvenile justice—such as the age at which certain legal proceedings may take place or the ability for a juvenile to be tried as an adult—none of these ages provide an exemption from criminal responsibility like the age of 10 does. The law is designed to protect very young children from being held to the same standards of accountability as older juveniles and adults, acknowledging their limited understanding and maturity.