Youth Charges in New Zealand: What Parents Need to Know
If your child has been charged with a criminal offence in New Zealand, it can feel like your world has shifted overnight. You may feel overwhelmed, confused, or fearful about what this means for their future.
The good news is that New Zealand’s youth justice system is different from the adult court system. It is designed to focus on rehabilitation and accountability, not just punishment. But even so, outcomes depend heavily on how the case is approached and that is where the right legal support becomes crucial.
At Anj Singh Law, I provide calm, clear, and compassionate legal guidance to rangatahi and their whānau. As both a criminal defence lawyer and a mother, I understand the emotional weight these cases carry and the importance of protecting a young person’s future.
Youth Justice in New Zealand: How It Works
Youth charges are generally dealt with in the Youth Court, which handles offences committed by children (10–13 years) and young people (14–17 years).
The Youth Court focuses on:
Rehabilitation
Accountability
Family and community support
Cultural understanding
Avoiding unnecessary criminal convictions
For many cases, the first step is a Family Group Conference (FGC) a restorative meeting involving the young person, their whānau, police, Youth Justice professionals, and sometimes the victim. The goal is to create a plan that addresses the offence and supports the young person to make things right.
What Can a Youth Lawyer Help With?
Explain the Process to You and Your Child
The Youth Court can feel intimidating. I break down the process in plain language so your child understands their rights, responsibilities, and what to expect at every step.
Attend Family Group Conferences (FGC)
An FGC is more than just a meeting—it is a formal legal process. I attend these conferences to support your child, ensure fair treatment, and help shape a plan that’s realistic and restorative.
Advocate for the Best Possible Outcome
Depending on the case, I may be able to help your child:
Avoid formal charges altogether
Access Police Diversion
Receive a Discharge Without Conviction
Complete a supported plan without a criminal record
My role is to show the court or conference how your child is taking responsibility and making changes so that rehabilitation, not punishment, is the focus.
Minimise Long-Term Consequences
A youth charge, if mishandled, can lead to:
Barriers to travel or student visas
Disruption of schooling or job opportunities
Lasting mental health impacts or stigma
Entry into the adult criminal justice system later
With the right support, many youth can complete their process without any conviction being recorded.
Why This Matters
Your child’s teenage years are a time of growth, learning, and sometimes mistakes. A single moment should not define their life.
What they need now is support, advocacy, and a path forward. The earlier you seek legal advice, the more options are available and the better the chance of keeping your child’s future open.
You've Come to the Right Place
With over 22 years of legal experience, I’ve helped young people across Aotearoa navigate the Youth Court system with dignity and support. I work closely with parents, schools, counsellors, and cultural advisors to make sure each child is seen as more than just a charge sheet.
As a lawyer and a mother, I understand what is at stake for you, your child, and your whānau.
📞 Contact Us Now for a confidential consultation. Let’s work together to protect your child’s future and ensure their voice is heard fairly, respectfully, and with care.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If your child is facing a charge, please seek personalised legal support from a qualified youth defence lawyer.
