Young people and the law

We understand that young people can find themselves in trouble with the police. The resulting experience at the police station can be a worrying and frightening time for both the young person and their parents and guardians. Therefore speed is of the essence in seeking appropriate legal help.

We provide a 24/7 police station service to all young people free of charge and can have expert, representation there within 45 minutes.

If charged, young people under 18 years of age will appear at a special Youth Court (unless charged with an adult). We have a team of Youth Court specialists who can offer young people the best available representation.

Most Youth Court cases qualify for Legal Aid, so there is no need to worry about the cost.

Young People are treated differently throughout the legal system and it is essential to have confidence in a solicitor experienced in safeguarding the legal interests of young people. A criminal conviction can have a huge and long lasting impact, that is why coherent representation is essential.

Holdens team are able to draw on long term, regular experience in dealing with young people at the police station and throughout the court system - request a solicitor from Holdens and you can be sure of expert advice and the skill to explain complex matters of law to often vulnerable young people.

Police station

Advice and assistance from a solicitor at the police station is ENTIRELY FREE OF CHARGE regardless of the circumstances.

Young people aged 16 or younger must be accompanied by an appropriate adult whilst at the police station and in the interview. That adult should be independent of the allegation and able to effectually safeguard the welfare of the young person whilst they are detained. This role often falls to a parent or guardian.

As an appropiate adult both you and the young person are entitled to ask for free legal advice - ensure the young person involved receives the best care and advice and ask for a solicitor from Holdens as soon as possible.

Interviews at the police station can be stressful and complex - for an adult. For young people the experience can be hugely daunting. Let us look after their legal interests from the outset!

* For more information regarding the role of an appropriate adult, advice at the police station and court - Download a brochure here or call for free copy.

Youth Court

Following a system of reprimands and warnings the police may charge a young person or summons them to attend a Youth Court.

These special courts deal exclusively with people aged 17 and under and involve specialist procedures.

Holdens offer fully experienced Solicitors to advise and assist throughout Youth Court proceedings - contact us as soon as you are aware of the need to attend court.

Legal Funding

Advice and representation at the police station is free of charge regardless of the circumstances.

Public funding at the youth court requires the completion of an application form which our team of advisers can take you through. Legal Aid is usually granted in Youth Court cases to cover the costs of your defence. Call us now for further advice.

Guardians and schools

If, as guardian, carer or school employee, you are made aware of the need for a young person to attend the police station or court call Holdens for early advice and assistance.

Our information pack is especially designed with further information for those acting as appropriate adults to be aware of court proceedings.

Download it now or call for your free copy.

Holdens also offer a unique and specialised training service to schools or care establishments who often find their young people at the police station or courts when staff members are often called upon at short notice to attend as appropriate adults.

An experienced solicitor from Holdens can attend on request to speak to staff about their role and responsibilities to their young people both at the police station and at court. Clear advice can be provided about the need for coherent representation throughout and the way that Holdens provide their service.

If you are interested, or for more information contact:

Rachel Broughton
rachel.broughton@holdenslaw.com