Our Services
Youth Crime & The Law
Because you matter
At MC Solicitors, we understand that when a child or young person is accused of a criminal offence, the experience can be frightening — both for them, their family and or guardians. The Youth Court exists to deal with cases involving those aged 10 to 17, but the consequences of proceedings can extend far beyond childhood. That is why sensitive, specialist representation is essential.
Our youth crime solicitors support both you and your child through every stage of the process, offering clear advice, sensitive guidance, and strong defence to protect their future.
Why the Youth Court is Different
Unlike the adult criminal courts, the Youth Court is designed to focus on rehabilitation and safeguarding, not simply punishment. Proceedings are less formal, but the impact of a conviction is no less serious. A criminal record can affect future education, employment, and travel opportunities. Our role is to protect both the immediate rights and the long-term future of the young person.
Speak to Our Youth Crime Solicitors Today
If your child is facing allegations, the right legal support can make all the difference. At MC Solicitors, we provide sensitive, specialist defence to protect their rights, reputation, and future.
How We Support Young People
We act with professionalism, discretion, and care at every stage:
- ▸ Police Station Representation – protecting rights from the very first interview.
- ▸ Clear Advice – explaining the process and options in plain, understandable language.
- ▸ Family Involvement – working closely with parents or guardians to ensure support throughout.
- ▸ Court Advocacy – presenting the strongest possible defence, with an emphasis on rehabilitation.
- ▸ Protecting Futures – where possible, seeking alternatives to prosecution or avoiding a lasting criminal record.
Our Approach
We know that young people may struggle to understand the process or to express themselves clearly. We take the time to build trust and rapport, ensuring that no child faces the system feeling unheard or unsupported. Every case is handled with the same care, whether it involves a first-time mistake or a more serious allegation.
Why Choose MC Solicitors
- ▸ Expert knowledge of youth crime
- ▸ Specialist advocacy and advice
- ▸ A track record of protecting young lives and futures
FAQs
What is the Youth Court?
The Youth Court is a special type of Magistrates’ Court that deals with cases involving children and young people aged 10–17. It is less formal than the adult court, but the decisions made can still have a serious impact on a young person’s future.
What types of cases go to the Youth Court?
Most criminal charges against under-18s are heard in the Youth Court, including offences such as theft, assault, drug offences, and criminal damage. More serious cases, like murder or certain firearms offences, may be sent to the Crown Court.
Do parents or guardians need to attend?
Yes. If the defendant is under 16, a parent or guardian must attend court. For 16–17-year-olds, a parent or guardian should still attend to provide support and assist with the process.
What sentences can the Youth Court give?
The court can impose a range of sentences, including:
- ▸ Absolute or Conditional Discharge
- ▸ Fines
- ▸ Referral Orders (working with the Youth Offending Team)
- ▸ Youth Rehabilitation Orders (YROs)
- ▸ Youth Rehabilitation Orders with Intensive Supervision and Surveillance (ISS)
- ▸ Youth Rehabilitation Order with Fostering
- ▸ Detention and Training Order (DTO) in a secure centre for the most serious cases
Can a youth conviction affect future opportunities?
Yes. A conviction in the Youth Court can appear on a criminal record and may affect education, employment, travel, and future prospects. That is why it is so important to have experienced solicitors defending the case.
Why choose MC Solicitors for Youth Court representation?
At MC Solicitors, we are specialists in youth crime. We give clear, practical advice, work closely with families, and fight to protect both the rights and the future of the young person involved.
Youth Rehabilitation Orders
In some cases, the Youth Court may decide that the best outcome is not custody but a Youth Rehabilitation Order (YRO). This is the main community sentence for young people aged 10–17.
A YRO can include a range of conditions, such as:
- ▸ Regular supervision by the Youth Offending Team (YOT)
- ▸ Curfews or restrictions on where a young person can go
- ▸ Unpaid work (for 16–17-year-olds)
- ▸ Drug or alcohol treatment
- ▸ Requirements to attend school, training or behaviour programmes
A YRO can last from three months up to three years, depending on the seriousness of the case. Its aim is to support rehabilitation while holding the young person accountable for their actions.
Intensive Supervision and Surveillance (ISS)
The most serious type of YRO is the Intensive Supervision and Surveillance (ISS) programme. It is widely regarded as the toughest sentence a young person can receive without being sent to custody.
Key features of ISS include:
- ▸ A minimum of 25 hours a week of structured activities for the first three months.
- ▸ Ongoing education, training, reparation work and behaviour programmes.
- ▸ Strict curfews and electronic monitoring.
- ▸ Intensive oversight by the Youth Offending Team.
ISS is usually imposed where the court is considering custody but decides that a final opportunity in the community is appropriate. While demanding, it allows the young person to remain at home, continue their education, and work on positive change.
Get Expert Help Today
- ▸ Is your child facing proceedings in the Youth Court?
- ▸ Has your child breached a Court Order?
- ▸ Has your child breached their bail conditions?
- ▸ Have the police made contact with you to arrange a voluntary police interview?
- ▸ Has your child been arrested and is in police custody?
- ▸ Was legal representation declined at the police station and your child has now been charged with a criminal offence/s to attend court or has received a postal requisition to attend court?
Contact MC Solicitors today
MC Solicitors – Because you matter.
Ready for Legal Support?
If you’re facing serious allegations, our team is here to provide expert support. Let us help safeguard your rights.