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Young Offenders and Youth Crime
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Young Offender & Youth Crime Lawyers
Usually, a parent or guardian also has to attend the police station to act as an appropriate adult. In some circumstances, volunteer appropriate adults may be asked to assist. The appropriate adult has the overriding right to request that legal advice is sought on behalf of the youth, even where they may have previously decided that they do not want a lawyer.
Our specialist lawyers are vastly experienced at dealing with youths, both at the police station and the Youth Courts.
There are a number of ways that matters which the police are investigating may be disposed of without your child having to go to court. The chances of securing one of these outcomes are significantly increased if your son or daughter is represented by a solicitor.
The Youth Court
You should have a solicitor to advise, assist and represent you in respect of any offence that your child is charged with. Being convicted of any offence as a youth may have serious consequences for the future or your child in terms of their current education, university aspirations and career choices, even travel abroad. It is important therefore to obtain legal advice.
Speak to our Youth Crime defence solicitors today
Require us out of hours please either telephone us on 020 3325 7415 or email us on info@berrislaw.co.uk or complete the online form.
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We know that no two cases are ever the same and we are dedicated to guiding you through the legal process with tailored solutions which work for you.
Fill out the form to request your consultation today, this will be an initial meeting to see how we can help and get to know each other, with no obligation.
The office is open from 9 am to 5.30 pm Mondays to Fridays excluding bank holidays. In the event your call is urgent and require us out of hours please either telephone us on 020 3325 7415 or email us on info@berrislaw.co.uk or complete the online form.
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frequently
Asked Questions
What age is considered a youth or juvenile in criminal law?
In England and Wales, a youth is anyone aged 10 to 17. Children under 10 cannot be arrested or charged with a criminal offence.
Can a child be arrested by the police?
Yes. If the child is aged 10 or over, the police can arrest them if they are suspected of committing an offence. However, strict safeguards apply to protect their welfare and rights.
What is an Appropriate Adult?
An Appropriate Adult is someone who supports a child during police procedures, such as interviews. This is usually a parent, guardian, or social worker, and they must be present to ensure the child understands what is happening and is treated fairly.
Will my child have to go to court?
Not always. Many youth cases are dealt with through out-of-court disposals such as youth cautions or diversion schemes. If the matter is more serious, the case may be heard in the Youth Court
What is the Youth Court?
The Youth Court is a specialist court that deals with defendants aged 10–17. It is less formal than adult courts and focuses on rehabilitation, education, and preventing reoffending.
Can youth cases ever be sent to an adult court?
Yes, in serious cases such as grave violent or sexual offences, a youth may be sent to the Crown Court for sentencing, although special rules still apply due to their age.
Will a criminal conviction stay on my child’s record?
Some youth convictions and cautions can appear on criminal records, but many are spent sooner than adult convictions. Whether it must be disclosed depends on the offence and the type of check required.
Can a child go to prison?
Children are not sent to adult prisons. In serious cases, they may be placed in youth detention facilities, such as a Secure Training Centre or Young Offender Institution, but custody is treated as a last resort.
What sentences can a Youth Court impose?
Sentences can include referral orders, youth rehabilitation orders, fines, community programmes, or, in the most serious cases, detention. The focus is on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Do we need a solicitor if my child is arrested?
Yes. A solicitor can provide free legal advice at the police station, regardless of income. Early legal advice is vital to protect your child’s rights and future.
Can parents be held responsible for their child’s offence?
Parents are not criminally responsible for their child’s actions, but courts can impose parenting orders requiring support, supervision, or attendance at programmes.
How can a solicitor help in youth crime cases?
A specialist youth crime solicitor can advise at the police station, represent your child in court, work to avoid prosecution where possible, and ensure the case is handled with sensitivity and fairness.
Can my child be interviewed at school by the police?
Yes, in some circumstances, the police can speak to a child at school, but safeguards apply, and an Appropriate Adult should usually be present.