Juvenile Lawyer

When a child or young person is accused of a crime, the legal process can be particularly challenging and intimidating for them and their families. The youth justice system aims to balance accountability with rehabilitation, but navigating its complexities requires specialist legal expertise. If your child is facing criminal allegations, it is vital to seek immediate advice from an experienced juvenile lawyer to protect their rights and future.

At our firm, we specialise in representing children and young people accused of offences. Our juvenile lawyers combine legal expertise with compassion to provide robust defence, ensuring the best possible outcome while prioritising the welfare and rehabilitation of your child.

What is the Juvenile Justice System?

The juvenile justice system deals with individuals under the age of 18 who are accused of committing a crime. It differs from the adult system in its focus on rehabilitation, education, and preventing reoffending rather than punishment.

Key Features of the Juvenile Justice System:

• Youth Courts: Most cases involving young people are heard in specialised youth courts with less formal proceedings.
• Specialist Sentences: Sentences focus on rehabilitation, such as referral orders, youth rehabilitation orders, or community service.
• Age Considerations: The system differentiates between children aged 10–17, with tailored procedures for different age groups.

Common Offences Handled by Juvenile Lawyers

Juvenile lawyers defend young people accused of a wide range of offences, including:

• Theft and Burglary: Shoplifting, petty theft, or breaking and entering.
• Assault and Violence: Physical altercations or more serious violent offences.
• Drug Offences: Possession or supply of controlled substances.
• Anti-Social Behaviour: Public disturbances, vandalism, or disorderly conduct.
• Cyber Offences: Online harassment, hacking, or digital fraud.
• Knife Crime: Possession or use of a weapon.

Consequences of a Conviction in the Juvenile System

While the juvenile justice system focuses on rehabilitation, a conviction can still have serious consequences for a young person, including:

• Criminal Record: Certain convictions may remain on a young person’s record and impact future education, employment, or travel opportunities.
• Custodial Sentences: In serious cases, young offenders may be sent to a secure training centre or youth offending institution.
• School Disruption: Legal proceedings and sanctions can interfere with a young person’s education.
• Emotional Impact: The stress of legal proceedings can have a lasting effect on a young person’s mental health and well-being.

How Our Juvenile Lawyers Can Help

Our experienced juvenile lawyers provide comprehensive legal support to ensure that your child receives a fair hearing and that their rights are protected at every stage of the process.

1. Early Legal Advice

Seeking legal advice as soon as your child is accused of an offence is crucial. Early intervention can significantly influence the direction and outcome of the case.

Our Services Include:

• Advising your child and family on their legal rights.
• Preparing your child for police interviews and ensuring they do not incriminate themselves unnecessarily.
• Reviewing initial evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

2. Representation During Police Interviews

Children under 18 must have an appropriate adult present during police interviews, but this is not a substitute for legal representation. Our solicitors ensure your child’s rights are fully protected.

Our Approach Includes:

• Attending police interviews to provide immediate legal advice.
• Ensuring proper procedures are followed, including age-appropriate questioning.
• Challenging any attempts to coerce or intimidate your child into making statements.

3. Building a Strong Defence

Defending a young person requires a careful balance of legal expertise and understanding of their developmental needs. Our team meticulously examines the details of your child’s case to build a tailored defence strategy.

Defence Strategies May Include:

• Challenging Evidence: Highlighting procedural errors or disputing unreliable witness testimony.
• Demonstrating Lack of Intent: Proving that the accused lacked criminal intent or acted impulsively due to immaturity.
• Mitigating Circumstances: Presenting evidence of good character, educational achievements, or challenging life circumstances.
• Diversion Options: Advocating for out-of-court resolutions, such as cautions or community programmes, instead of prosecution.

4. Representation in Youth Courts

Most juvenile cases are heard in youth courts, which require a specialised approach. Our solicitors have extensive experience representing young people in these proceedings.

In Youth Courts, We Will:

• Present a strong defence to achieve an acquittal or reduced charges.
• Advocate for rehabilitative sentences that prioritise your child’s welfare.
• Ensure that proceedings are conducted fairly and with respect for your child’s rights.

5. Post-Conviction Support

If your child is convicted, we provide ongoing support to minimise the impact on their future and explore options for appeal or rehabilitation.

Post-Conviction Services Include:

• Advising on how to mitigate the effects of a criminal record.
• Assisting with compliance with court orders or community service requirements.
• Preparing and submitting appeals to challenge convictions or sentences.

Why Choose Us as Your Juvenile Lawyers?

Juvenile cases require specialist knowledge, sensitivity, and a commitment to the best interests of young people. Our solicitors are dedicated to providing expert legal support to children and their families.

1. Specialist Expertise: We have extensive experience representing children and young people in youth courts and police investigations.
2. Child-Centred Approach: We provide compassionate, age-appropriate legal advice and support.
3. Proven Track Record: Our team has successfully defended numerous young people, achieving acquittals, reduced charges, and rehabilitative outcomes.
4. Family Support and Communication: We work closely with families to ensure they are informed and supported throughout the legal process.
5. 24/7 Availability: Legal issues involving children can arise unexpectedly. Our solicitors are available around the clock to provide immediate advice and representation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my child is arrested?

Contact a solicitor immediately. Ensure your child has legal representation before speaking to the police.

2. Can a child go to prison for committing a crime?

In serious cases, young offenders may be sent to a secure training centre or youth offending institution, but custodial sentences are typically a last resort.

3. Will a conviction affect my child’s future?

Certain convictions may remain on your child’s record and impact future opportunities. Our solicitors can advise on minimising these effects.

4. Can my child avoid court?

In some cases, alternatives such as cautions, warnings, or community programmes may be available to resolve the matter without prosecution.

5. How long does ajuvenilecase take to resolve?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, but our solicitors work to resolve matters as quickly and effectively as possible.

Contact Our Juvenile Lawyers Today

If your child is facing criminal allegations, early legal intervention is essential to protecting their rights, welfare, and future. Contact us now on 0208 732 5458 or 07946 424 154, or email us at admin@makwanas.co.uk to arrange a confidential consultation.

Our experienced juvenile lawyers are available 24/7 to provide expert advice, compassionate support, and robust defence. Protect your child’s future—call us today.