Youth Crime & Youth Court Defence

Specialist representation for children and their families

If your son or daughter has been arrested, invited to a police interview or charged with an offence, early specialist advice can make a significant difference.

The Youth Court recognises that children are still developing, learning and capable of change. Its approach is fundamentally different from the adult courts — and can feel very different from the way a child has already been treated during a police investigation.

Peter Bonner & Co has extensive experience representing children and young people at the police station, in the Youth Court and in serious cases before the Crown Court. We understand both the law and the worry experienced by parents. We explain every stage clearly, ensure the child's voice is heard and work to protect their education, wellbeing and future.

Legal Aid is available for children, so cost should not prevent a family from obtaining experienced representation.

Speak confidentially to a youth crime specialist: 020 8297 1727

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Why specialist Youth Court experience matters

Youth proceedings are not simply adult criminal cases involving younger defendants. The court must consider the child's age, maturity, welfare and prospects of rehabilitation. The language, procedure, available sentences and approach to participation are different.

Our work includes:

• advice and representation at the police station;
• support for parents and appropriate adults;
• Youth Court trials and sentencing;
• robbery, violence, weapons and drugs allegations;
• sexual allegations and online offences;
• cases involving schools, social services or safeguarding concerns;
• joint-enterprise and multi-defendant prosecutions; and
• grave crimes and cases sent to the Crown Court.

When several agencies are involved

A parent can quickly feel powerless and alone when the police, school, social services and other agencies are all involved with their child. Our advice does not stop at the courtroom door. We regularly help parents understand what each agency is doing, what may happen next and how best to respond.

We usually encourage families to engage calmly and proactively with the professionals involved, keeping the child's welfare at the centre of every discussion. Constructive engagement does not mean that a parent must simply agree with everything. It means working positively where possible, while knowing when questions should be asked or an unfair decision challenged.

This approach can reduce conflict, protect the child's education and wellbeing, and help parents regain some control during an extremely difficult period.

Questions parents often ask

QUESTION: What happens after my child is arrested?

We can advise immediately, attend the police station and explain what happens next. A child should not face a police interview without legal advice.

QUESTION: Should I attend the police interview?

A parent may be able to act as the appropriate adult, but that role is different from the solicitor's role. We will explain both and make sure the child is properly supported.

QUESTION: Will my child receive a criminal record?

That depends on the allegation, the outcome and the disposal imposed. We will explain the possible consequences for education, employment and future disclosure at the earliest stage.

QUESTION: Will the case stay in the Youth Court?

Most cases involving children are dealt with in the Youth Court. The most serious cases, and some cases involving adult co-defendants, may be sent to the Crown Court. We provide continuity of representation throughout.

Calm advice when your family needs it most

A child accused of an offence is still a child. Families deserve clear advice, careful preparation and representation from solicitors who understand the Youth Court.

Call our 24-hour number on 020 8297 1727 or contact Peter Bonner & Co.