Juvenile Laws at Peru
Peru's juvenile justice system is designed to balance accountability with rehabilitation, aligning with international standards on child rights.
⚖️ Legal Framework
Criminal Code: Peru's Criminal Code exempts individuals under 18 from criminal responsibility, except in cases of terrorism, where the minimum age is 15.
Legislative Developments: In May 2012, a draft bill was proposed to lower the age of criminal responsibility for serious crimes from 18 to 16. However, as of 2014, this proposal had not been enacted, and the legal age remained at 18.
🧒 Age of Criminal Responsibility
Standard Age:The standard age of criminal responsibility in Peru is 18 years, However, minors aged 16 and 17 may face prison sentences ranging from 6 to 10 years for serious offenses such as homicide, feminicide, extortion, vandalism, rape, or involvement in criminal gangs, Those aged 14 and 15 may receive sentences between 4 to 8 years for similar offenses
🏛️ Juvenile Justice Procedures
Restorative Justice Initiatives In 2005, the "Justicia Para Crecer" project was launched to introduce restorative justice concepts, emphasizing repairing harm over punitive measure. This initiative offers legal and psychological support to accused youths and provides specialized training for judges, prosecutors, and social worker. Since its inception, nearly 2,000 youths have participated, with only 7% reoffending.
Juvenile Centres As of 2015, approximately 6,600 adolescents received care in juvenile assessment and rehabilitation centres nationwid. The judiciary has expanded open juvenile centres, known as adolescent guidance services, across various judicial districts to promote rehabilitation.
National Policy The "PUEDO" policy aims to reduce juvenile delinquency through preventive measures, efficient justice administration, and social reintegration initiative. It addresses factors like family, school, and community environments to support at-risk adolescent.
Peru's approach to juvenile justice reflects a commitment to balancing accountability with rehabilitation, emphasizing restorative justice and comprehensive support systems for minors in conflict with the law.
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