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Youth Court

Criminal Law

If you are a young person or are responsible for a young person due to appear before a youth court in any part of the country, in relation to any prosecution, our team of experienced lawyers are available to represent you at the first hearing and prepare your matter for trial if appropriate.

The youth court has very different priorities to the adult court. Representation at the youth court needs to be by a specialist advocate with experience in this field.

The team of advocates at Bakers have extensive experience of dealing with young people appearing before the youth court from the most serious matters of Murder/ Manslaughter, Rape and serious Drugs offences through to less serious offences.

At the first hearing the court will expect you to be in a position to enter a plea. Before a plea is entered it is essential that all young people are provided with legal advice in relation to the strength of the evidence and how the case is likely to proceed.

There is an expectation that most young people will be dealt with by the youth court but for the more serious offences the court has to consider whether these cases should be transferred to the Crown Court. It is essential that legal advice is provided before this issue is considered by the court.

Here to Help, Every Step of the Way

Our lawyers will work with you to the conclusion of your case. We will liaise with the Youth Offending Team, health professionals, social services and other professionals if required. Our aim is to keep the Young Person and those concerned about their welfare fully informed throughout the court process and work towards securing the best possible outcome.

For most offences young people under the age of 18 years will be eligible for legal aid, which we will apply for on your behalf.

The youth court has the power to make many ancillary orders including Parenting Orders and Anti-Social Behaviour Orders. These orders can have an enormous impact upon a young person’s everyday life. Our team have vast experience of dealing with these orders and can often persuade the court that these orders are not necessary.

Should a young person find themselves before the court for a breach of a court order they should get expert advice immediately. Youth courts frequently view breaches of court orders more seriously than the original offence for which the order was imposed. A breach of a court order gives the court the power to re-sentence you for the original offence. Punishment for breaching a court order can include making the young person subject to a Detention and Training Order which is effectively a prison sentence for a young person. Our advocates are available to provide representation where a young person has breached an order.

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Criminal Law Solicitors

Servicing Manchester, Derbyshire & Surrounding Areas

Including Glossop, Stockport, Buxton, Chesterfield, South Yorkshire, Cheshire & more