As part of our expertise in police investigations and criminal defence, we frequently advise young people (under the age of 18) and vulnerable adults on how to navigate through criminal investigations and prosecution.

For a young or vulnerable person, as well as for their parents or guardians, the criminal investigation or prosecution can be a very daunting and stressful experience. Our lawyers steer vulnerable clients sensitively through the process. We are committed to achieving the best outcome for our clients and providing them with all the guidance and assistance they require through this difficult time. On many occasions, we have successfully made representations on our young clients’ behalf to persuade the authorities not to prosecute them.

We have, in recent times, provided advice and representation to a number of youth clients in relation to offences of possession and distribution of indecent images (including via “sexting” and social media), as well as those accused of rape and other sexual offences. We are also experienced in navigating the ancillary issues connected with investigations of this nature, including school and university disciplinary proceedings, the involvement of social services and abuse suffered on social media as part of online campaigns.

Our experience includes representing clients with significant mental health problems and working closely alongside healthcare professionals to ensure that criminal proceedings are handled in a way which causes the minimum possible damage to their long-term wellbeing. Where necessary, we ensure that proceedings are adapted to cater for particular requirements and we fight hard to ensure our clients’ voices are heard throughout the criminal justice process.

Our youth crime lawyers have recently advised on the following matters:

• A 16-year-old under investigation for an alleged rape occurring at school. No further action was taken.
• A student arrested for drug possession, assaulting an emergency worker and criminal damage. We persuaded the CPS not to prosecute for any offences after obtaining video evidence about his heavy-handed arrest.
• A 15-year-old accused of revenge pornography and malicious communications offences.
• A 17-year-old who was acquitted at trial of conspiracy to rob and perverting the course of justice.
• A sixth form student under investigation following historic allegations of sexual assault made on social media.
• Making successful representations to the CPS, post-charge, not to pursue prosecution against a 15-year-old who engaged in consensual sexual activity with his 14-year-old girlfriend.