This focused training is designed for lawyers and legal professionals committed to safeguarding the rights and futures of child clients. It will equip lawyers to more effectively advise children on their options for police interviews and to better manage cases that have reached court which were eligible for diversion.
Whether you're advising during a police investigation or advocating in court, this session will strengthen your ability to influence outcomes effectively.
*Note: this course is not designed for YJS staff. If you would like to know more about our OOCD training for YJS teams, please contact [email protected]
What you'll gain from this course:
- A clear understanding of the legal framework for diverting children from prosecution, including all diversionary outcomes — from informal "No Further Action" decisions to statutory Youth Conditional Cautions.
- Practical insight into the Child Gravity Matrix — the police’s key decision-making tool. You’ll explore scenarios based on real cases and practice applying the matrix in a practical activity.
- A look at the roles and duties of the police, CPS decision makers, Youth Justice Services, and defence solicitors, and how they interact in the diversion decision-making process.
- Essential knowledge of the criminal records implications of Out of Court Disposals during childhood, and how they affect a child’s future.
- By the end of this session, you'll be equipped to deliver stronger, more informed legal representations—right from the police station through to the courtroom.
Format: Online via Teams (attendees will be sent joining details closer to the time)
Cost: £200 standard / £100 for YJLC members (contact [email protected] for your members' discount code).
Who should attend? Solicitors, lawyers and legal professionals who represent or advise children in the criminal justice system.