Who is responsible for sentencing the offender in youth court?

In youth court, the responsibility for sentencing typically falls to a panel that includes a combination of judges, which may involve three judges, as indicated by the correct choice. This structure aims to provide a more balanced and fair approach to sentencing, allowing for a diversity of perspectives and expertise when considering the unique circumstances surrounding youth offenders.

The inclusion of multiple judges in the sentencing process helps to ensure that decisions are not only fair but also tailored to the rehabilitative goals that youth courts aim to achieve. This is in contrast to a single judge, who might lack input from various viewpoints. Similarly, while the involvement of parents and victims in a restorative justice model is important, the formal authority to impose a sentence typically rests with the judicial panel. Thus, having a collective of judges reinforces the integrity of the legal process in youth court settings.