Commissioners are central to the government's plans to increase local accountability for policing. They will take responsibility for large pots of public money that are currently channelled directly to YOTs.
With the power to shape police priorities for the duration of their five-year term, they have the potential to make major changes to strategies to address youth offending.
The concept of commissioners has proved controversial, with fears about candidates pandering to hard-line populism in their bid for election. But YOTs will also have the potential to influence commissioners and make the case for increased investment in progressive projects.
The stakes are certainly high - commissioners will be responsible for the policing budget and also Home Office prevention funding provided to YOTs via the Youth Justice Board, which totals about £10m.
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