What constitutes a child under Maryland State Law?

In Maryland State Law, a child is defined as any individual under the age of 18 years. This age standard aligns with various legal contexts, such as the rights and protections afforded to minors in family law, juvenile justice, and education. By establishing this age threshold, the law provides a consistent framework for determining legal responsibilities and rights, ensuring that individuals under 18 are recognized as children for purposes such as parental responsibility, consent laws, and educational rights.

The options reflecting other age limits—such as 16, 21, or 14—do not capture the legal definition of a child as established in Maryland. Understanding this definition is crucial for those working in counseling and related fields, as it informs how practitioners engage with minors and navigate the legal systems pertinent to their care and protection.