Legal issues
Age of criminal responsibility
10 in England and Wales.
Parents
Children and Young Persons Act 1933, section 34A: the court must require a parent to attend for under 16s, and may for 16 and 17 year olds.
Main sentences
- Referral order: usually for a first offence on a guilty plea.
- Youth rehabilitation order: requirements such as supervision, curfew or activities.
- Detention and training order: custody, only for serious cases.
Reporting
Section 49 of the 1933 Act automatically prevents publication of details identifying a child in Youth Court proceedings, unless lifted.
Evidence that matters
Reports from the Youth Justice Service, school and other agencies carry real weight. Keep school records and any support plans.
Reasonable lines of enquiry
Check early
- Whether an out-of-court outcome was properly considered before charge.
- Any learning or communication needs affecting understanding.
- The child's age at the date of the offence, which can affect sentence.
What happens next
After a guilty plea or finding, the court often asks the Youth Justice Service for a report before sentence. A referral order involves meetings with a panel and a contract of activities.
Immediate steps
- Attend every hearing with your child.
- Get a solicitor before the first hearing.
- Tell the solicitor about any special educational needs.
What should you send us?
Send the charge, court date, your child's date of birth and any information about their needs.