Criminal courts
Youth courts
A youth court is a special type of magistrates’ court for people aged between 10 and 17.
A youth court has either:
- 3 magistrates
- a district judge
There is not a jury in a youth court.
Your parent or guardian must come with you:
- if you’re under 16
- if you’re 16 to 17 and they’re given a court order
How youth courts are different from adult courts
Youth courts are less formal than adult courts, for example:
- members of the public are not allowed in to the court (unless they get permission)
- you are called by your first name
Cases a youth court deals with
A youth court deals with cases like:
- theft and burglary
- anti-social behaviour
- drugs offences
For serious crimes, like murder or rape, the case starts in the youth court but will be passed to a Crown Court.
Sentences a youth court can give
The court can give a range of sentences including:
- community sentences
- Detention and Training Orders carried out in secure centres for young people
Appealing your sentence
If you disagree with the court’s verdict, you may be able to appeal. Court staff can give you information on how to appeal.