Although most cases involving children are heard in the Youth Court, there are situations where a young person — even under 17 — can be charged or dealt with in the adult criminal courts. This can be extremely confusing and frightening for families.
We provide specialist representation for young people facing adult proceedings, ensuring their age, maturity and vulnerabilities are properly recognised.
When a Child or Youth Can Be Charged as an Adult
A young person may be prosecuted in the adult courts if:
- They are under 18 but charged alongside adult co defendants
- The case is considered too serious for the Youth Court, e.g., homicide
- The law requires the case to be sent to the Crown Court
- The offence involves joint enterprise with adults
- The prosecution directs that the case must be heard in the adult system
- They were interviewed as a child but charged later, even if still under 18
Why Specialist Representation Matters
Young people in the adult system face:
- More formal procedures
- Higher sentencing powers
- Greater pressure from adult co defendants
- Increased risk of misunderstanding the process
- Harsher bail conditions
This means a 15 or 16 year old for example can appear in the adult Magistrates’ or Crown Court in specific circumstances. Even then, the court must still consider the young person’s age, maturity, communication needs and vulnerabilities.
We ensure the court understands:
- Their age at the time of the offence
- Their developmental maturity
- Any exploitation or coercion
- Safeguarding concerns
- Their education, background and vulnerabilities
- The age specific sentencing guidelines
This can significantly reduce the sentence imposed if convicted.
