What is the primary purpose of a Youth Court?

The primary purpose of a Youth Court is to hold youth accountable with a focus on rehabilitation. This approach recognizes that young individuals may make mistakes but also have the potential for growth and change. Youth Courts are designed to address the underlying issues that contribute to their behavior, rather than simply imposing punitive measures. The emphasis is on guiding youth towards understanding the consequences of their actions, fostering accountability, and providing them with resources or support to make better choices in the future.

This rehabilitation-focused stance aims to reduce recidivism and encourage positive development, contrasting with punitive measures which may not effectively address the root causes of a young person's behavior. The Youth Court model also typically involves community engagement and peer influence, promoting a restorative justice approach that benefits both the youth and the community.