Youth Sentencing Explained
Section 250, Detention Training Orders, and how young offenders are sentenced differently
Youth Sentencing Explained
If your loved one was under 18 when they committed their offence, different rules apply. This guide explains how youth sentencing works and what it means for release.
The Key Difference: Sentencing Act 2026 Does NOT Apply to Youth
The Sentencing Act 2026 changed release rules for adult offenders — introducing one-third release for standard determinate sentences. However, this change does not apply to young offenders sentenced under youth provisions.
Adult SDS (Post-2026)
Release at one-third (33%) of sentence
Example: 6 years = release at 2 years
Youth Detention (Section 250)
Release at halfway (50%) of sentence
Example: 6 years = release at 3 years
What is Section 250?
Section 250 of the Sentencing Act 2020 governs sentences of detention for young offenders (those under 18 at the time of the offence) who commit serious offences listed in Schedule 15.
Who Does Section 250 Apply To?
- Offenders who were under 18 at the time of the offence
- Sentenced for a Schedule 15 offence (serious violent or sexual offences)
- Given a sentence of detention rather than adult imprisonment
Release Point
Young offenders sentenced under Section 250 are released at the halfway point (50%) of their sentence. This is longer than adult SDS under the 2026 Act (one-third) but shorter than adult SDS+ for 244ZA(7) offences (two-thirds).
Types of Youth Detention
Detention and Training Order (DTO)
For less serious offences. Fixed terms of 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, or 24 months.
Release: Halfway automaticallySection 250 Detention
For serious offences where an adult would receive 14+ years. No maximum term.
Release: Halfway (Section 250)Detention at His Majesty's Pleasure
For murder committed when under 18. Indeterminate sentence with a minimum term set by the judge.
Release: Parole Board decision after minimum termRelease Comparison: Adult vs Youth
| Sentence Type | Release Point | Example (6 year sentence) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult SDS (pre-2026) | 50% | 3 years |
| Adult SDS (post-2026) | 33% | 2 years |
| Adult SDS+ (244ZA(7)) | 67% | 4 years |
| Youth Section 250 | 50% | 3 years |
Common Questions from Families
Will my son/daughter benefit from the 2026 Act?
If they were sentenced under youth provisions (Section 250, DTO, etc.), the Sentencing Act 2026 changes to one-third release do not apply. They will continue to be released at the halfway point.
They were 17 when arrested but 18 when sentenced — which rules apply?
What matters is their age at the time of the offence, not when they were sentenced. If they were under 18 when the offence was committed, youth sentencing provisions typically apply.
What happens when they turn 18 in custody?
They may be transferred to an adult prison (Young Offender Institution or adult estate) when they turn 18 or 21, depending on the establishment. However, the release calculation remains based on the original youth sentence — the halfway point still applies.
Can they get HDC (Home Detention Curfew)?
Young offenders in youth custody are generally not eligible for HDC. However, if transferred to the adult estate before release, eligibility may change. Speak to the establishment's Offender Management Unit for specific guidance.
Where to Get Help
These organisations provide specialist support for families of young people in the justice system: