Child abuse or neglect occurs when a person causes a child under what age to suffer unjustifiable pain or mental suffering?

The definition of child abuse or neglect typically recognizes that individuals under the age of 18 are considered minors and are protected under specific child welfare laws. Therefore, the law stipulates that if a child suffers unjustifiable pain or mental suffering caused by another person, this constitutes abuse or neglect if the child is under 18 years of age. This framework is designed to ensure that the rights and well-being of minors are safeguarded, enabling legal intervention to protect them from harm. The age of 18 is widely acknowledged in legal contexts as the threshold for adulthood, meaning those under this age are afforded special protections in situations of abuse or neglect.