The Youth Court is a division of the Magistrates Court, and deals with most cases involving young defendants.

Our Criminal Advocates are almost always in attendance on these days, and can travel to Youth Courts sitting further afield if arrangements have been made with our offices for them to do so.

Normally, defendants between the ages of 10 and 18 will appear at the Youth Court. Nobody under the age of 10 can be charged with a criminal offence.

Where the young person is charged jointly with an adult, then the case will usually be heard in the Magistrates Court, and not the Youth Court.

In cases where the young person is accused of a grave crime (one which, in the case of an adult, carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment), then their case may be sent to the Crown Court.

Because of the possible consequences to a young person of being convicted of a criminal offence, it is particularly important that you involve us at the earliest opportunity - which is usually at the Police Station....