Much as we like to protect young people from getting into trouble with the law, it happens. If this affects you or a child you care for, get in touch straight away. Our award-winning youth justice team will make a difference.
Children and young people and the law
Under the law of England and Wales, any young person aged 10 to 17 can be arrested and charged with a criminal offence. However, they are treated slightly differently to adults and are entitled to certain protections designed to help them understand what’s happening and prevent it affecting the rest of their lives. Stryders Law is a member of the Youth Justice Legal Centre.
Choose a solicitor who specialises in young people
Stryders’ solicitors are specialists in the complex area of law surrounding children and young people in the justice system. Our empathetic experts are totally committed to making sure young people are effectively defended and that their age, immaturity, curiosity, or impetuousness is not misinterpreted unfairly.
Most importantly, we are there to safeguard their rights and make sure that what’s happening today does not adversely affect their future potential. We understand the needs and importance of their extended family network too. Our team is highly respected by all the court professionals. Many of them, like us, are parents too, and we work hard to find solutions which deliver the best outcome for all involved.
All our discussions are confidential, and we can arrange appointments at the office, at another convenient location, in prison or in custody if necessary.
What to do next if…
An allegation has been made
Contact us as soon as you think you, or a child, is in trouble. We’ll help you work out the best next steps. Our top priority is to avoid an arrest and conviction which could affect their future prospects.
A young person has been arrested or asked to attend a police station for a voluntary interview
Don’t talk to the police, even to deny the allegation, until you have spoken to us. It won’t make them think you are guilty. It’s free, and it’s your legal right. You are also entitled to have an adult present whenever the police speak to you and the police are likely to let your parents or guardians know as soon as possible. We are available any time day or night.
Tell the police you want Stryders Law and not the duty solicitor. That way you know you’re getting an expert in youth justice. We will find out what’s happening from the police and come as soon as the officers confirm they are ready. Our solicitors will give you easy-to-understand advice in your interests. We’re on your side and we’ll also sit by your side when you speak to the police.
You have been asked to attend court
If you do not already have a solicitor to represent you, now is the time to contact us urgently. We will prepare your case and represent you at magistrates’ court, crown court or the Court of Appeal. Where necessary, we can instruct a barrister on your behalf and will always liaise with you throughout the process.
Key facts for young people and their carers
- Anyone under 17 who is arrested for committing a criminal offence should be made aware of their rights as soon as they get to the police station. These are that a parent or guardian should be informed straight away and that they have the right to have a trusted adult present with them at the police station, who they can talk to in private if they want to. Stryders solicitors are specialists in youth justice rights. We’ll make sure it happens and rectify it if it doesn’t.
- Unless it’s a serious crime, the longest the police can hold someone under 17 is 24 hours. Children under 14 cannot be fingerprinted without the permission of a legal guardian. Stryders specialists will provide guidance and reassurance to young people and their guardians in this situation.
- Don’t believe the urban myth that offences committed while under 18 years old are wiped from your record later. A criminal record is kept which can be disclosed at the discretion of the police. Universities and colleges also ask for information about convictions and cautions as part of their application process. Stryders’ aim first and foremost is to urge reason with the authorities and avoid a conviction wherever possible.
- If they are charged, children will usually be sent to a special youth court where there are special rules preventing their identification in the media. The exception is where the charge is very serious or there is an adult co-defendant. However, in these cases the young person’s identity will usually be protected, at least until they are convicted. Your Stryders solicitor will work hard to protect your child’s anonymity as well as their future reputation and prospects.
- As a parent you have legal obligations too. For instance, if your child is 16 or under you must go with them to court or a warrant may be issued for your arrest. We’ll advise you and your child about your rights and responsibilities so you don’t fall foul of the law by accident.
Competitive legal fees for defending drugs offences
If you are going to be interviewed under caution by a police officer, you are entitled to FREE legal representation at the police station, whatever your financial circumstances. You’re also entitled to free representation at court under the legal aid scheme if you are under 18.
Ask for Stryders by name. Unlike the lottery of using a duty solicitor, we will contact the police after your interview to see if there’s anything else you need to do as part of our follow-up service and ensure we find out from the police the next steps.
We may also be able to offer a fixed fee for additional assistance.