Youth Crime Solicitors: Representation at the Youth Court

Speak to our youth crime solicitors today

For a free initial consultation on your legal position and the available options when attending the Youth Court, contact our local offices in London, Birmingham or Manchester.

For urgent advice at any time of day or night regarding the Youth Court, please call our Emergency Number 07836 577 556.

Why choose JD Spicer Zeb’s youth solicitors?

To put it simply, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of young people. Wherever possible, we will work hard to help you avoid getting a criminal record, which can have lasting and detrimental effects for the rest of your life.

Our dedicated team of young offenders’ solicitors are strongly committed to working sensitively and compassionately with any young person who has found themselves in trouble with the law. Our main aim is to ensure that you receive the best outcome in Court, no matter the nature of the offence you have been charged with.

If you are due to attend the Youth Court, we know it can be a very upsetting time for a young person and their parents or guardians to face. That is why we will be there to help you every step of the way.

We will be by your side as your representative at the Youth Court and will ensure that you understand what is happening and what to expect during your Court proceedings. We will explain everything in plain English, guide you through the Court process and ensure that your needs and those of your parents or guardians are met.

Our Youth Crime team recognises the different levels of care and attention needed by young people in the criminal justice system. We are committed to supporting young people, their families and carers throughout, whether at the police station, youth court or beyond.

What type of cases do JD Spicer Zeb’s Youth Court lawyers take on?

At JD Spicer Zeb, we have experience with dealing with a variety of youth crime proceedings, including:

• Youth trials
• Police station interviews
• Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs)
• Persistent Young Offenders
• Sentencing in the Youth Court

Our team of specialists in youth crime proceedings also have many years of experience in dealing with common youth offences such as:

• Possession of Drugs
• Theft
• Robbery
• Public Order Offences
• Gang Related Offences

Common questions about the Youth Court

What is a Youth Court?

A Youth Court is a specialist Magistrates’ Court that deals with cases involving young people aged 10 to 17 who are charged with a criminal offence.

These courts follow specific procedures to ensure children and teenagers understand what is happening and can participate in the legal process.

Youth Courts are closed to the public, and only those directly involved in the case, such as parents, legal representatives, and youth offending teams, can attend.

If you or your child is due to appear at a Youth Court, it is important to seek advice from a solicitor experienced in youth criminal defence. At JD Spicer Zeb, we provide clear, sensitive guidance throughout the process.

How are sentences decided for young people?

Sentencing for young people aged 10 to 17 aims to prevent reoffending whilst ensuring the welfare of the child. The Youth Court, which handles most cases involving young offenders, considers various factors when determining appropriate sentences.

These include the seriousness of the offence, the young person's age and maturity, their previous criminal history, and the likelihood of reoffending. The court also takes into account any mitigating circumstances and the impact of the offence on the victims.

Sentencing options include referral orders, youth rehabilitation orders, and detention and training orders. The aim is to prevent reoffending and promote their reintegration into society.

At what age can a child instruct a solicitor?            

In most cases, a child aged 12 or older can instruct their own solicitor. However, this is not a fixed rule. Children under 12 may still be able to instruct a solicitor if they are considered to have the capacity to understand the situation and the solicitor’s role. It is the solicitor’s responsibility to assess whether the child has sufficient understanding to provide instructions.

To do this, the child must be able to explain what has been happening and why they need legal support. The solicitor will then offer advice and explain the options available, helping the child make informed decisions about how they would like to proceed. The solicitor will not be able to make choices for the child but will guide and support them through the legal process.

Contact our Youth Court solicitors today

For urgent specialist advice, immediate representation, or to speak to us confidentially about how we can help you with Youth Court advice or representation, please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated team of specialist juvenile defence lawyers in London, Birmingham or Manchester on telephone:

• Brent & Camden London Office: 020 7624 7771
• Manchester Office: 0161 835 1638
• Birmingham Office: 0121 614 3333
• City of London: 0207 624 7771 (our senior Solicitors and Partners can meet by appointment in the City)

Or email: solicitors@jdspicer.co.uk

Alternatively, you can fill out our quick online enquiry form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Is it an emergency?

Is it an emergency? Have you or a friend or relative been arrested?

For urgent matters, or in the event of an emergency, you may call our 24-hour, 7 day a week emergency number on the telephone: 07836 577 556.