What distinguishes the jurisdiction of Youth Courts from traditional courts?

Youth Courts are designed with a focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. This approach recognizes that young people have a greater capacity for change and development compared to adults. The primary aim of Youth Courts is to address the underlying issues that contribute to delinquent behavior by providing support and guidance, rather than solely imposing penalties. This can include counseling, community service, and educational programs, all intended to help the youth make better choices in the future.

In contrast, while traditional courts may also consider rehabilitation, they often lean more towards punitive measures, depending on the offense and the offender's history. The initiative to rehabilitate in Youth Courts stems from a belief in the potential for growth and change in the young population, which is a philosophy less emphasized in traditional court systems. This distinction makes the approach in Youth Courts uniquely tailored to the developmental needs of youth offenders.

The emphasis on rehabilitation aims to reduce recidivism by providing young individuals with tools to become law-abiding citizens rather than focusing primarily on punishment.