Parramatta Children’s Court
Contact Information
About this court
Parramatta Children’s Court is part of the New South Wales Children’s Court system and deals with matters involving young people under 18 years of age. Located at 2 George Street in Parramatta, the court is a specialist jurisdiction focused on youth justice and care and protection matters.
Proceedings are generally closed to the public to protect the privacy and welfare of children and young people involved.
What matters are heard here
This court generally deals with a range of matters, including:
- Criminal charges involving young people under 18 years of age
- Bail applications involving juveniles
- Sentencing and defended hearings in youth matters
- Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) involving defendants under 18
- Care and protection matters relating to the safety and welfare of children
- School attendance and supervision orders in appropriate cases
Serious indictable offences or certain traffic matters may be dealt with in higher courts.
Court process overview
Children’s Court proceedings operate under the Children (Criminal Proceedings) Act 1987 (NSW) and are guided by the principle that rehabilitation is prioritised over punishment.
The court applies different legal principles depending on age, including:
- No criminal responsibility for children under 10
- A rebuttable presumption (doli incapax) for children under 14
Sentencing approach
If a young person is found guilty, the court may impose outcomes focused on rehabilitation and diversion, including:
- Dismissal with or without caution
- Good behaviour bonds
- Probation orders
- Community service orders
- Fines
- Control orders (detention in serious cases)
Appeals
Decisions from the Children’s Court can be appealed to the District Court of NSW or, in some cases, the Supreme Court of NSW. Appeals generally must be filed within 28 days.
Legal support at Parramatta Children’s Court
Hugo Law Group represents clients across New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, and Western Australia, including youth criminal matters.
We can assist with:
- Court appearances for young people
- Bail applications and defended hearings
- Advice and preparation for Children’s Court matters
- Representation in sentencing and AVO proceedings
Contact Hugo Law Group
If you need advice or representation for a matter at Parramatta Children’s Court, contact Hugo Law Group to discuss your situation and next steps.