The Youth Courts deal with matters involving abuse and neglect of juveniles, as well as offenses committed by juveniles. Young people who have not reached the age of 18 may be subject to the Youth Court, although there are some exceptions. Some offenses which would be treated as crimes if committed by adults are known as delinquent acts when they involve juveniles.

In the 20 counties which have a County Court, those judges also serve as Youth Court judges. In counties which do not have a County Court, the Chancery Judge may hear Youth Court matters, or the Chancery Judge may appoint a lawyer to act in a judicial capacity as Youth Court Referee. The city of Pearl also has its own municipal Youth Court.

Youth Court District:
First Judicial District - Rosedale, Mississippi
Second Judicial District - Cleveland, Mississippi

Jurisdiction:
The Youth Court shall have exclusive original jurisdiction in all proceedings concerning a delinquent child, a child in need of supervision, a neglected child, an abused and/or a dependent child.

Terms of Court:
First Judicial District - Third Wednesday and Thursday of every month
Second Judicial District - Second and Fourth Wednesday and Thursday of every month.

Judge Gwendolyn Thomas

Staff:

YOUTH SERVICES
Larry McCalop, Supervisor
204 N. Pearman Avenue
Cleveland, MS 38732
Ph: 662-843-8556

CASA
Patti Hendrix, Director
204 N. Pearman Avenue
Cleveland, MS 38732
Ph: 662-846-6394

JUVENILE DETENTION
Harold Ward, Director
Main Street
Rosedale, MS 38769
Ph: 662-759-3466