Explain the differences between the procedure adopted in the criminal courts for adult offenders, and those adopted for youths in English criminal litigation.

In England, the criminal justice system distinguishes between the procedures adopted for adult offenders and those adopted for youths. The key differences between these procedures are as follows: Age of the offender: The first and most obvious difference is the age of the offender. An adult offender is someone who is aged 18 or over at the time of the offence, whereas a youth offender is someone who is aged between 10 and 17. Court process: The court process for adult offenders is different from that for youths. Adult offenders are tried in a Crown Court, whereas youths are tried in a Youth Court or a Magistrates' Court. Youth Court is designed to be less formal and intimidating for young people and to take into account their age and maturity. Sentencing: There are different sentencing guidelines for adult and youth offenders. Adult offenders are subject to the full range of sentencing options, including imprisonment, whereas youth offenders are not typically sentenced to prison unless the offence is very serious. Instead, youth offenders may be given a range of community-based sentences, such as a referral order, a youth rehabilitation order or a detention and training order. Reporting restrictions: There are also reporting restrictions on the identification of youth offenders, which means that their names and other identifying details cannot be published in the media. This is to protect their privacy and prevent them from being stigmatized by their offending behaviour. Role of parents/guardians: Finally, parents or guardians are more involved in the youth justice system than they are in the adult system. They may be asked to attend court with their child, and they may be involved in the development of a youth rehabilitation order or other community-based sentence. Overall, the youth justice system is designed to be more rehabilitative than the adult system, taking into account the age and maturity of the offender, and aiming to prevent reoffending and promote positive change.