Juvenile & Youth Defence
Sensitive, age-appropriate representation for under-18s in the Youth Court and at the police station.
Children and young people facing criminal allegations need representation that takes account of their age, vulnerability and the lasting impact a conviction can have on their future.
Lucy works closely with appropriate adults, social workers and Youth Offending Teams, and prioritises diversions and out-of-court disposals wherever appropriate to keep young people out of the formal court system.
What's included
- Police station representation with an appropriate adult
- Youth Court hearings and Youth Crown Court cases
- Diversion schemes, cautions and community resolutions
- Liaison with parents, schools, Youth Offending Teams
- Sensitive, age-appropriate communication
Where we cover
- · Norwich Youth Court (sits within the Magistrates' Court)
- · Police stations across Norfolk
- · Mental Health Hospitals (by arrangement)
Common questions
Does my child need an 'appropriate adult'?
Yes. Anyone under 18 detained at a police station must have an appropriate adult present — usually a parent, guardian or family member. If none is available, the custody sergeant arranges one (often a Youth Offending Team volunteer).Will it go on my child's record permanently?
Depends on the outcome. Out-of-court disposals (community resolutions, youth cautions) sit on police records but generally drop off basic DBS checks after a set period. Convictions are subject to special rehabilitation periods for under-18s. We'll explain the implications for your child's specific situation.Can the case be dealt with without going to court?
Often yes. Out-of-court disposals (community resolution, youth caution, youth conditional caution) are the preferred outcomes for first-time and lower-level offending. Lucy actively pushes for these where appropriate.Will reporting restrictions apply?
Yes, automatically. The press cannot name your child or publish details that would identify them while proceedings are live. Restrictions can be relaxed by the court in narrow circumstances but rarely are.
Call now if your child has been arrested or invited for interview.