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
Request a confidential callback
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Youth cautions and alternatives to prosecution
A youth caution may be considered where the legal requirements are met, including an admission and sufficient evidence. A child should never admit something they did not do simply to avoid court. A youth conditional caution involves agreed conditions and has additional requirements; failure to comply can lead to prosecution for the original offence.
We explain the evidence, whether an out-of-court outcome is appropriate, and possible record, disclosure and travel consequences. A caution is different from a court conviction, but it should not be treated as having no future implications. An appropriate adult or youth justice worker does not replace independent legal advice.
Referral orders and the youth justice team
A referral order is a community sentence involving a youth offender panel and an agreed programme addressing the offending. It is often relevant to a first conviction following a guilty plea, but availability and whether it is required depend on the statutory rules and the case. It is not a guaranteed outcome.
The local youth justice service, also called the youth offending team, assesses needs, helps prepare reports and supervises relevant court orders. Parents can help by sharing accurate information about education, health, caring arrangements and support already in place. We can help explain proposals and raise concerns about suitability or practical difficulties. Missing appointments or failing to comply with an order can bring the case back to court.
Youth Court or Crown Court?
Children aged 10 to 17 are generally dealt with in the Youth Court. Some cases must go to the Crown Court, including homicide allegations; other serious cases require a decision about the applicable powers and likely sentence. A charge that would be tried at the Crown Court for an adult does not automatically require the same approach for a child.
Where an adult is also charged, the court considers whether a joint trial is required in the interests of justice. We examine the charge, age, circumstances and relevant legal tests, and make representations about the proper court. If the Crown Court is required, we work to ensure the child can understand and participate effectively.
More questions from parents
Is the youth offending team my child’s solicitor?
No. Its assessment and support role is separate from independent representation. Your child still needs legal advice about the allegation and decisions in the case.
Can we ask the police to consider a caution?
We can make representations where appropriate. The evidence, admission requirements, seriousness and individual circumstances must be considered; an alternative to prosecution is not automatic.
What if my child was pressured into carrying drugs?
Tell us promptly about threats, grooming, debt or control. Safeguarding and potential defences need careful investigation. See our county-lines defence guidance.
What should we bring to a first appointment?
Bring police or court paperwork, the dates of interviews or hearings and information about school, health and support needs. Preserve relevant messages. Contact us before an interview or hearing so we can advise on the next step.
Further guidance for parents
For a focused explanation of what a parent can do before and during questioning, read a parent's role when a child is interviewed by the police. You can also read about free and independent advice at the police station, or contact us before an interview or hearing.
Preparing for the first Youth Court hearing
Our Youth Court solicitor’s guide to the first hearing explains preparation, plea, bail, the parent’s role and Legal Aid. Children remain children: we take time to understand their needs and help the family prepare calmly.
If an interview comes first, read parents, appropriate adults and a child’s police interview. For advice on the next step, request a confidential callback.