Understanding the Children’s Court

The Children’s Court of Victoria is a specialist court that hears matters involving young people aged 10 to 17 years. It deals with criminal offences, child protection cases, and family violence intervention orders. The court prioritises rehabilitation, not punishment, recognising that young people are still developing and capable of change.

Preparing for Court

Here’s how you can prepare and support your child through the legal process:

• Seek legal advice: Engage a criminal defence lawyer experienced in youth matters. The team at ETL have appeared for countless children over the years in matters ranging from minor theft and traffic offences, through to assaults, homicides and home invasions.
• Understand the charges: Be clear on what your child is facing. This helps you advocate and emotionally support them.
• Attend court: Your presence in court is powerful. It shows support and can influence how the court views your child’s rehabilitation. It is also helpful to understand what is happening and support your child, who may not fully comprehend what is happening.
• Talk to your lawyer: Ask questions and be involved in the legal strategy and planning. Your lawyer will also be able to provide information about the court process, tailored support services and explain likely court outcomes.
• Support Services for Parents and Children: There are excellent services available to support families navigating the justice system:
  • Youth Justice Community Support Service (YJCSS) – Offers case management and reintegration support post-court.
  • Youth Justice Court Advice Service (YJCAS) – Provides advice and referral pathways for young people during court proceedings.
  • Children’s Court Clinic – Conducts psychological assessments to help the court better understand the child’s background and behaviour.
  • Anglicare Youth Justice Program – Works with families and young people to break the cycle of offending and reconnect relationships.
  • More information can be found on the Children’s Court website.

How Parents Can Support Their Child

The court will look at family involvement when considering outcomes and plans for young people. Ways you can help:

• Provide reassurance and emotional support
• Encourage school, sport, and structured activities
• Reinforce boundaries and positive behaviour
• Engage with your lawyer and any support workers
• Help your child complete any court-ordered tasks (like counselling or community work)

How Emma Turnbull Lawyers Can Help

Our team of criminal defence lawyers in Melbourne have extensive experience representing youth offenders in the Children’s Court. We:

• Appear regularly across all metro and regional courts
• Build strong rehabilitation-based submissions
• Liaise with support services and education providers
• Provide clear advice to both parents and young clients

We approach youth matters with compassion, strategy, and a firm belief in second chances.

Get Legal Help Today

If your child is going to the Children’s Court, don’t face it alone. Contact Emma Turnbull Lawyers for expert advice, practical guidance, and fierce advocacy.

We work closely with families to protect futures and support rehabilitation.