Public funding in children’s criminal cases

Understanding how to secure and maximise public funding is essential for lawyers representing children in the criminal legal system. This masterclass will provide a practical guide to recent developments and common challenges in youth court funding.

Topics will include:

› CDS 7 claims – when and how to make them effectively
› New rates for youth cases – what has changed and how it affects your practice
› Certificates for assigned advocates – when and how to apply
› Funding for experts – including psychological experts, criminal exploitation specialists, and rap and drill/music evidence experts
› Intermediary funding – securing funding for communication support to ensure effective participation

This session will equip practitioners with the knowledge and practical strategies needed to obtain the funding required to properly represent children and build strong, well-resourced cases.

The Masterclass will be delivered by Mel Stooks Head of the Youth Crime Team, GT Stewart Solicitors.

Mel is an exceptionally experienced youth justice solicitor and Head of the Youth Team at GT Stewart Solicitors & Advocates. Since qualifying in 1998, she has dedicated her career to defending young and vulnerable people, often representing clients from police station to trial to ensure trust and continuity. An accomplished trial advocate, Mel regularly defends children charged with serious offences, including murder, and has particular expertise in neurodiversity and criminal exploitation. She has contributed to national best practice guidance, including the ICCA’s Advocacy for Children in Conflict with the Law, and delivers specialist training for lawyers and other professionals working within the youth justice system.