Criminal matters
The Children's Court deals with young people between the ages of 10 and 18 years. When they have been charged with a criminal offence they come under the Young Offenders Act 1994.
Even if they have turned 18, they will appear in the Children's Court if a crime was commited before they were 18. There are three ways they can be brought before the Childrens Court:
- They might be arrested by the police and kept in a detention centre until they bring them to court. If they are 18 years old they may be kept in a remand centre.
- They can be arrested, charged with a crime and then released on bail at the police station by the police. Before being released, they have to sign papers promising to go to court on a certain day.
- They might be served with a Notice to attend court by a police officer. This notice shows the date and time that they must go to court. A copy of the notice should also be given to an adult who looks after the young person, such as mum or dad or a grandparent.
Criminal matters process
Your court day
Information for your day in court for a criminal matter.
What happens in court?
What happens in court for a criminal matter.
If you plead not guilty
What happens if you plead not guilty.
Plead or found guilty
If you plead guilty or are found guilty after a trial.
Bail
Information for when you are on bail.
Possible penalties
Information on the penalties that could be received.
Information also on...
See also...
Last updated: 27 February 2026