Pleading ‘guilty’
If you plead guilty, the court can proceed to sentencing.
Sometimes, the court will request an adjournment (this is a break in the trial) and ask the Youth Justice Service (YJS) to prepare a pre-sentence report (PSR).
A PSR provides background information to help the court understand your circumstances and what motivated you to offend. It will also advise the court on what the best sentence may be to prevent you from offending again, ensuring your safety as well as the safety of others.
The YJS will interview you and your parent or guardian, and they may also speak to your school and other relevant people, groups, or services involved with your family.
Visit the Sentencing Court website for more information about the sentences that can be passed on young people.