Youth Court Explained: How Cases Involving Under-18s Differ
The Youth Court operates differently from the adult criminal justice system, with a stronger focus on welfare and rehabilitation.
When a person under 18 is charged with a criminal offence, their case is usually heard in the Youth Court rather than the adult Magistrates' Court.
A Welfare-Focused Approach
The Youth Court places significant weight on the welfare of the young person, alongside the interests of justice, and proceedings are generally less formal and more private than adult court.
The Role Of Parents And Guardians
Parents or guardians are usually required to attend court alongside a young defendant, and their involvement can be an important part of the young person's defence and mitigation.
Protecting Long-Term Outcomes
Given the potential long-term impact of a criminal record on education and employment, experienced representation focused on minimising lasting consequences is particularly important in Youth Court cases.