In legal terms, what is the age of presumed incapacity for children under the law?

Under Irish law, the age of presumed incapacity for children is set at 7 years old. This means that children under the age of 7 are generally presumed to lack the capacity to commit a crime. This presumption recognizes the developmental stage of children and their ability to understand the consequences of their actions. Consequently, this legal position reflects the understanding that very young children do not possess the necessary mental maturity to grasp the nature of criminal liability.

In legal proceedings, this age serves as a threshold. Therefore, any child below this age cannot be held criminally responsible for their actions. In contrast, older children may be subject to different degrees of accountability, depending on their age and understanding. This approach aligns with both national and international views on the protection of children and their rights within the legal system.