Criminal Defence Solicitors & Barristers
Youth Crimes
Criminal defence for any crimes committed, or charges faced, by those aged between 10 - 17
What are Youth Crimes?
Youth crimes are legal charges for children and teenagers aged 10 to 17 who are accused of breaking the law. In the UK, the system is designed to focus on rehabilitation and helping young people learn from their mistakes, but the rules are still very firm.
A solicitor helps by making sure the police followed the "appropriate adult" rules and that the young person’s rights were protected during interviews. They can also work with the Youth Offending Team to find ways to resolve the case without a permanent criminal record, such as through a "Referral Order."
Book an initial consultation
Facing any kind of charges can be a nervous time, don't sit with the anxiety. Call us for a free initial consultation to better understand your charges, and see how we might be able to help.
Types of Youth crimes
Each charge carries distinct consequences and requires a tailored defence strategy. Contact us to understand the charges further, and to work with us on your case.
Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB)
Behaviour that causes "harassment, alarm, or distress" to others
Theft and Robbery
Taking items that do not belong to you, with or without force
Drug Offences
Possession or sharing of illegal substances
Assault and Fights
Getting into physical fights or threatening others
Knife Possession and Weapons
Carrying a knife or dangerous object in public
Criminal Damage
Intentionally breaking or damaging property
Harassment and Cyber Bullying
Repeatedly targeting someone in person or online
What You Can Expect
The following steps are a general guidance and not an exact depiction, all cases are unique and will be treated as such. At Astons Law we commit to providing you the best service for your individual case requirements.
Initial assessment
We meet with the young person and their parents to find out what happened. We check if they understand the charge and if they were being pressured or bullied by older people.
Evidence scrutiny
We look at the police evidence, including social media messages and witness statements. Often, youth evidence is based on what other teenagers say, which we check for accuracy.
Procedure challenge
We check if the police followed the rules for interviewing a minor. If no parent or appropriate adult was present, or if the police were too aggressive, the evidence might be thrown out.
Court representation
If required, we represent the young person in the Youth Court, which is more private and less formal than adult court. We work to get the lightest possible result, like a Conditional Discharge or a warning.
From investigation to outcome, We're with you every step
From the moment you contact Astons Law, you're no longer facing this alone. We will guide you through every stage with clarity and purpose.
Addressing concerns and common questions
The information below is for educational purposes, and not legal advice, all cases are unique and should be treated as such.
The age of criminal responsibility is 10. Children under 10 cannot be charged with a crime, but social services may get involved.
Most youth convictions are spent much faster than adult ones. However, serious crimes will still show up on Enhanced DBS checks for certain jobs.
Yes. By law, a child must have an Appropriate Adult (usually a parent or social worker) with them during any police questioning.
This is the most common sentence for a first offence. The young person meets with a panel to agree on tasks to pay back the community instead of going to prison.
No. Youth Courts are closed, meaning the public and the media cannot enter. This is to protect the identity and future of the young person.
No. If a custodial sentence is given, they are sent to a Secure Training Centre or a Young Offender Institution, which are separate from adult jails.
Under the 2026 reforms, any child caught with a knife is given a tailored support plan. If they follow the plan and stay out of trouble, they may avoid a more serious court sentence.