Youth Court
If you are under the age of 18 and are charged with a criminal offence, you will appear in the Youth Court (certain exceptions apply). The Youth Court unlike the Magistrates Court or the Crown Court is not open to the public, all proceedings are conducted in private.
Your case will be presided over by Lay Magistrates or a District Judge, who are trained to deal with youths. The Youth Court has the power to impose a detention and training order for up to 24 months (in simple terms, youth custody).
Let our team help you
Why have Shah Hague Solicitors in the Youth Court?
The Youth Court is very different to other courts. It has its own procedure and sentencing regime. It requires specialist representation.
We understand the worries youths and their parents / guardians have when appearing in court. Shah Hague Solicitors has over 30 years experience representing children and youths through the minefield which is the Youth Court and the Criminal Justice System. We will always meet with you in good time before your first hearing and talk you through the process.
We recognise children and youths have needs which are different to that of an adult. Our representation of such individuals centres around their welfare and obtaining the best possible outcome.
We will engage with the prosecution on your behalf and obtain the evidence before your hearing (if it is available). After careful analysis of the evidence, we will discuss the strengths and weakness of your case and advise you appropriately.
Our team of Youth Court advocates will liaise with the numerous agencies in court, so you don’t have to. This includes but is not limited to the Magistrates / District Judge, legal advisors, the Crown Prosecution Service and the Youth Justice Service.
We distinguish ourselves from other law firms by providing continuous partner involvement in all cases.
Funding – Legal Aid or Private?
As a youth, you are almost certain of being eligible for legal aid.
We also offer a bespoke private client service. The benefit of instructing Shah Hague Solicitors on a private basis affords you greater choice. This includes but is not limited to choice of barrister, experts, appointments out of our normal office hours and at a location of your choice.
If you would like to discuss the services we provide and funding options, please give our specialist team a call.