NCTJ Essential Media Law 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

In the context of youth courts, members of the public are generally not allowed to attend. This restriction is in place to protect the identities and privacy of young individuals who are involved in legal proceedings. The principle behind this limitation is rooted in the belief that young people are more vulnerable and that their rehabilitation should be prioritized over public interest in the cases. The law seeks to create a safe space for young defendants, as well as to encourage openness in communication and engagement with the judicial process without the fear of public scrutiny.

While there are specific circumstances under which individuals like parents or guardians of the youth involved may be permitted in the court, the general rule is that public access is prohibited. In some cases, members of the press may be allowed, but they have restrictions on disclosing identifiable information about the youth. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the standard practice regarding public attendance in youth courts.