Youth Court

Story

The Rankin County Youth Court is a division of the County Court and is responsible for handling cases involving persons under the age of 18 who fall under the following categories:
• Delinquent Child
• Child in Need of Supervision
• Abused child
• Neglected child
Youth Court has exclusive jurisdiction involving persons under the age of 18 and hears the following type cases:
• Hearings when a child commits a delinquent act – an act that would carry criminal punishments if committed by an adult;
• Hearings when a child has been abused or neglected – whether it be physical, mental or sexual abuse/neglect;
• Hearings when a child is unruly or in need of supervision and is a dependent child;
• Involuntary committals of children in need of special care or mental treatment. Youth Court may also hear cases to terminate parental rights when parent(s) have failed or neglected certain key duties to the child or children.

Mission Statement
The Youth Court was created 1)to prevent and reduce youth delinquency and incorrigible behavior (CHINS) through intake assessment, counseling, court, probation, detention services and 2)to provide safety, security, welfare and protection for abused and neglected children with advocacy for a safe, permanent and nurturing home environment. These endeavors are in an effort to provide balanced attention to protecting the community from delinquency, accountability for offenses committed and development and protection of our youth’s physical, mental and moral development to become productive, responsible citizens.