Youth Proceedings and Competencies and Guidance

Question 1

What does youth proceedings relate to, in this guidance?

Answer 1

cases that are heard in the Youth Court and cases involving young defendants that are heard in the adult MC and CC or higher courts.

Question 2

Who is this guidance for?

Answer 2

practising barristers undertaking youth court work.

Question 3

What must barristers do to deal with vulnerability?

Answer 3

1. have knowledge San understanding of the additional vulnerabilities faced by young people in the criminal justice system.
2. be able to recognise and identify where a young person might be vulnerable and ensure effective safeguarding measures are in place
3. be able to adapt the delivery of their service to meet the needs of vulnerable young people
4. ensure that the young person understands the circumstances of what is happening.

Question 4

What should barristers do in terms of background and needs?

Answer 4

1. take all reasonable steps to be alert to any developmental, communication or mental health needs of a young person
2. be aware of the background of a young person, including the involvement of other agencies in the case
3. amend their approach based on the issue

Question 5

What should barristers know about key organisations?

Answer 5

1. be aware of key organisations relevant to the youth justice centre locally and nationally.
2. be prepared to engage with any organisations and agencies where it will benefit young people and assist them in the course of the proceedings.

Question 6

How should barristers communicate with young people?

Answer 6

1. speak with plain English
2. have the ability to build trust with young people
3. give advice about services which might make communication easier.