Youth Court

What is a Youth Court?

A Youth Court is a type of magistrates’ court that deals with children and young people aged 10 to 17 who are charged with a criminal offence. It is designed to be less formal and more focused on support and rehabilitation than adult courts.

Key features of Youth Court

More privacy

  • The public cannot attend hearings.
  • The young person’s name is usually kept anonymous.
  • This protects their identity and helps them move forward.

Specially trained magistrates and judges

  • They have experience in child development and youth justice.
  • They use a calmer, more conversational approach.

A less intimidating environment

  • Everyone sits at the same level.
  • The young person is encouraged to speak and understand what is happening.

Focus on rehabilitation

Youth Courts aim to:

  • Understand why the offence happened.
  • Support the young person to change their behaviour.
  • Keep them in education or training.
  • Reduce the chance of reoffending.

Youth Offending Teams (YOTs)

A Youth Offending Team worker is usually present. They:

  • Assess the young person’s needs.
  • Provide reports to the court.
  • Offer support such as mentoring, education help or restorative justice.

What types of cases Youth Courts handle

Youth Courts deal with most offences committed by young people, including:

  • Theft
  • Assault
  • Criminal damage
  • Drug possession
  • Public order offences

Very serious offences, such as murder or certain firearms cases, are sent to the Crown Court, even for young people.

Possible outcomes (sentences)

Youth Court sentences are designed to support change and protect the public.

Referral Order

The young person works with a panel to repair harm and improve behaviour.

Youth Rehabilitation Order (YRO)

A flexible community sentence that may include:

  • Curfews
  • Education or training requirements
  • Mentoring
  • Restorative justice work

Fines

Fines are usually lower than adult fines and based on the young person’s ability to pay.

Detention and Training Order (DTO)

A custodial sentence for more serious or repeated offending. Part of the sentence is served in custody and part in the community.

Why Youth Courts exist

Youth Courts recognise that children and young people:

  • Are still developing.
  • May be influenced by peers or exploitation.
  • Respond better to support than punishment.
  • Have a strong capacity for change.

The system is designed to guide, not just punish.