What is the "rule of sevens" related to?

The "rule of sevens" pertains to evaluating a child’s capacity to be held liable for torts. This rule is traditionally used to determine the age at which children can be considered capable of negligence. Under this principle, the common law often divides childhood into three distinct age groups: under seven years old, between seven and fourteen, and fourteen years and older.

Children under the age of seven are typically presumed to lack the capacity to commit torts or be held liable for negligent conduct; they are considered incapable of understanding the consequences of their actions. Those aged between seven and fourteen may be held liable, but the presumption is that they still lack the full capacity to understand the nature of their actions fully. However, if evidence suggests a particular child in this age range had the maturity to understand the risks associated with their actions, liability may still be imposed.

Children aged fourteen and older are generally regarded as capable of being held to the same standard of care as adults regarding tortious behavior. The rule of sevens establishes a structured way to assess a child's ability to understand their actions and, consequently, their liability under tort law.