Support for young people. England and Wales.
Legal Aid for Youth Court
If a child or teenager is under investigation or has been sent to Youth Court, getting advice early matters. Legal Aid may apply depending on the stage of the case and circumstances. We can explain what happens next and help you take the right steps.
No guarantees. Legal Aid may apply depending on circumstances.
If this is urgent
If there is a police interview, arrest, bail conditions, or a court date coming up, get advice immediately. A solicitor can advise on what to say, what not to say, and the safest way to handle the next step.
You may also want to read our service page on criminal defence and police station advice if an interview or investigation is underway.
What Youth Court cases can involve
Youth Court deals with under-18s accused of criminal offences. Some cases are resolved quickly, while others can become serious, especially where there are allegations of violence, weapons, or repeat offending.
- Police investigations and voluntary interviews
- Bail and bail conditions
- First appearance in Youth Court
- Guilty pleas, not guilty pleas, and trial preparation
- Sentencing and mitigation for young people
- Support for parents and guardians
If the case progresses, you may need Magistrates’ and Crown Court representation (Youth Court sits within the Magistrates’ Court system).
How Legal Aid can apply in Youth Court
Whether Legal Aid applies can depend on the stage of the case and your circumstances. A solicitor will explain what funding rules apply and what your options are.
Investigation and interview stage
If the police want to interview a child, getting advice first is crucial. Legal Aid may apply depending on the situation. We can explain what to expect and what to prepare.
Court proceedings and preparation
If the case is in Youth Court, eligibility is assessed under criminal Legal Aid rules. A solicitor will guide you through the steps, deadlines, and paperwork.
If Legal Aid does not apply
If Legal Aid is not available in your case, we’ll explain private funding options so you can make an informed decision. Some families also want early initial advice and case planning to reduce risk.
What to do now
- 1) If there is an interview, do not attend without legal advice.
- 2) Keep all paperwork, dates, and any bail conditions in one place.
- 3) Contact us for a confidential eligibility check and next-step plan.
If bail is involved, you may also want to read our page on Legal Aid for bail applications.
FAQs
Can I get Legal Aid for Youth Court?
Legal Aid may apply depending on the stage of the case and your circumstances. A solicitor will assess eligibility and explain what funding options may be available.
Should my child attend a police interview without a solicitor?
No. You should get legal advice before any interview. A solicitor can advise urgently, explain rights, and attend the interview to protect your child’s position.
Will a parent or appropriate adult be involved?
In many situations, an appropriate adult is involved to help ensure the process is fair for a child. A solicitor can explain what applies and what to expect.
What happens in Youth Court?
Youth Court is a type of Magistrates’ Court for under-18s. The process is focused on young people, but it is still a criminal court with serious outcomes possible.
Do you guarantee Legal Aid or outcomes?
No. Legal Aid depends on your circumstances and the type and stage of the case. Outcomes depend on the facts, evidence, and court decisions.