The Youth Justice Legal Centre and the Children’s Rights Group at Doughty Street Chambers have published a legal guide on Effective Participation and Fitness to Plead.
The legal guide is intended to assist lawyers representing children in the criminal courts. The guide explains the legal framework for fitness to plead and effective participation in relation to children going through the criminal justice system. It takes you through the key points in a case where concerns about your client’s ability to effectively participate arise, and gives practical advice on the work that needs to be done by the defence at each stage.