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Youth welfare in criminal proceedings; utilization

In Germany, criminal responsibility ("criminal responsibility") begins at the age of 14. If young people become delinquent, youth welfare services provide support in criminal proceedings and youth court assistance.

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Landratsamt Straubing-Bogen - Amt für Soziale Dienste für Jugend und Familie

Landratsamt Straubing-Bogen

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Leutnerstraße 15
94315 Straubing

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Postfach 463

94304 Straubing

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Procedure details

If young people between the ages of 14 and 21 come into conflict with the law, they and their parents can turn to the youth court assistance service.

Participation in proceedings under the German Juvenile Courts Act in accordance with Section 52 SGB VIII ("Youth Court Assistance" or "Youth Assistance in Criminal Proceedings") is one of the statutory duties of the Youth Welfare Office. Youth court assistance is involved in the entire course of the youth court proceedings. It accompanies young offenders and supports the juvenile courts and the juvenile public prosecutor's office by providing reports, opinions and decision-making aids. The personal life situation of the young person is at the forefront of all considerations.

The various tasks of juvenile court assistance include in particular

  • Information and advice on the course of juvenile court proceedings
  • possible consequences of the offense
  • Data protection and protection of confidence
  • various offers of help in accordance with the Child and Youth Welfare Act, for problems and difficulties in school, work and training, family and housing, leisure time and debts
  • Reporting to the public prosecutor's office and the juvenile court (in each case taking into account proportionality) in written form about the personal life history and life situation, future prospects, background to the offense and possible youth welfare measures
  • Supporting the young person during the juvenile court proceedings and the juvenile court in its decision-making process
  • Support during pre-trial detention and imprisonment; reintegration into society and resocialization if necessary
  • Arranging and accompanying youth welfare measures, such as outpatient educational support (e.g. educational support or supervision orders)

  • Which documents are required will be determined with you individually.

If you would like to make use of juvenile court assistance, please contact your local youth welfare office.

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Status: 03.07.2025
Editorially responsible for prodecure description: Bayerisches Staatsministerium für Familie, Arbeit und Soziales
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