What is considered the "Special Duty" of all youth court members?

The "Special Duty" of all youth court members is fundamentally centered on maintaining confidentiality. This responsibility is critical in youth court settings, where the individuals involved are often minors. The necessity for confidentiality helps to protect the privacy of the youth, encouraging honest and open communication. This also aligns with the rehabilitative goals of the youth court system, where the emphasis is on education and reform rather than punishment.

By ensuring that discussions and proceedings remain confidential, youth court members create a safe environment for youths to share their experiences without fear of public disclosure. This is important both for the youth's well-being and for fostering trust in the judicial process. Other roles, such as advocating for the victim, providing legal representation, and ensuring fairness in proceedings, are vital too but are not classified under the special duty of confidentiality that specifically pertains to the protection of the youth's identity and personal information.