Youth court support

Police are the first to respond to reports of youth crime. They will take your statement and may refer you to victim support resources. The Youth Aid section of police works across the youth justice system to hold children and young people to account when they break the law. 

If your case is referred to a Family Group Conference, a Youth Justice Coordinator will be in touch. Youth Justice Coordinators are impartial. They organise and run Family Group Conferences and support you to participate if you wish. 

If you decide not to take part, they can make sure your views are given a way that is meaningful for you. They can support you before, during, and after the meeting and can keep you updated on progress if you choose. 

Youth justice social workers support children and young people who have offended, and their families and whānau, to take responsibility and make positive changes. They complete social work assessments and help address underlying issues. 

Youth justice social workers support children and young people who have offended, and their families and whānau, to take responsibility and make positive changes. They complete social work assessments and help address underlying issues. 

If the matter goes to Youth Court, a Court Victim Advisor can tell you about your rights, keep you updated about your case, help you take part in the court process, and answer any questions you might have. They can also give you information about safety and protection orders. Court Victim Advisors don’t give emotional or counselling support to victims. 

The Youth Court of New Zealand has a breakdown of the people you may come across:  

Who is in the court room | Youth Court(external link)