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updated on 14 November 2016
Solicitors representing young people in the youth courts are to receive specialist support from the Solicitors Regulation Authority to help them meet the needs of their young clients.
Over 60% of young people and children in the criminal justice system have difficulties with speech, language and communication, meaning that that some do not always understand their solicitor, legal process or how the court works, and find it difficult to express themselves – a very concerning example cited was a child who replied “no” when asked in court if he “felt remorse” about his alleged offence, only to ask his solicitor after the hearing what remorse actually means. The SRA has therefore worked with the Association of Youth Offending Team Managers and the charity Just for Kids Law to provide a support package of expert insights and advice for solicitors.
Paul Philip, the SRA’s chief executive, said: "Our additional help for those working in youth courts reflects that this is a really important part of the justice system, one that comes with its own unique challenges and demands. We want to help solicitors achieve the consistently high standards all children and young people deserve."