Children’s Court Criminal Lawyers

Understanding the Children’s Court of Victoria

The Children’s Court deals with criminal charges against young people under 18 and operates under the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 (Vic).

Unlike adult courts, the Children’s Court focuses on:

• Rehabilitation over punishment

• Reducing reoffending

• Supporting education, employment and family stability

• Age-appropriate sentencing and procedures

The Court also has access to specialised programs and Youth Justice support services designed to assist young people in addressing the underlying causes of offending.

Common Youth Crime Charges in Victoria

Young people may be charged with a wide range of offences, including:

• Theft and shoplifting

• Burglary and home invasion offences

• Assault and affray

• Drug possession and drug-related offences

• Criminal damage and vandalism

• Traffic and driving offences

• Public order offences

• In more serious cases, sexual offences or homicide-related charges

At Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally, we defend young people facing both minor and serious allegations. We carefully assess the evidence, challenge the prosecution case where appropriate, and work to protect the young person’s future.

Penalties in the Children’s Court

Sentencing in the Children’s Court is highly individualised and depends on the seriousness of the offence, the young person’s background, and their prospects of rehabilitation.

Possible outcomes include:

Warnings and Cautions

For minor matters, police may issue a warning or caution without court proceedings.

Diversion

Diversion allows a young person to avoid a criminal record if they accept responsibility and complete tailored conditions such as counselling, education programs, or community-based activities.

Good Behaviour Bonds (Adjourned Undertakings)

A court order requiring good behaviour for a set period, often with rehabilitative conditions.

Youth Supervision Orders

Supervised orders managed by Youth Justice, involving strict conditions and court monitoring.

Youth Justice Centre Orders

Reserved for serious offences, involving detention in a youth justice facility.

The focus of the Court is always on rehabilitation and reducing the likelihood of reoffending wherever possible.

Rehabilitation and Support for Young People

Rehabilitation is central to how the Children’s Court approaches sentencing. Courts often consider:

• Education and school engagement

• Employment and vocational training

• Mental health support

• Drug and alcohol treatment programs

• Family intervention and counselling services

At Stary Norton Norton Halphen & Galbally, we actively advocate for rehabilitation-focused outcomes that support a young person’s long-term development and reduce the risk of further offending.

Why Children’s Court Cases Require Specialist Lawyers

Children’s Court matters require a careful and strategic approach. Decisions made early in the process can significantly impact outcomes.

Our Children’s Court lawyers:

• Provide clear advice to young people and families

• Appear regularly in the Children’s Court of Victoria

• Negotiate with prosecution where appropriate

• Defend charges at contested hearings and trials

• Advocate for diversion and rehabilitation outcomes

• Protect the young person’s future and criminal record

We understand the stress these matters place on families and provide practical, supportive guidance throughout the entire process.

Expert Criminal Defence Lawyers Melbourne

If your child has been charged with a criminal offence or is required to attend the Children’s Court, it is important to obtain legal advice as early as possible.

Contact Stary Norton Halphen & Galbally on (03) 8622 8200 or submit an online enquiry to speak with our experienced criminal defence lawyers.