Children aged 10 – 17 years old can be given a youth caution if they admit a criminal offence.
The police must have enough evidence to prove an offence was committed.
A child must have an appropriate adult if they are given a youth caution (unlike adults they do not consent to receiving a youth caution).
Most children who receive cautions will be referred to the Youth Offending Team (YOT).
A youth caution remains on a child’s criminal record. It is considered spent but will appear on an enhanced criminal record check unless it is filtered.
- The law has recently been changed to require that all children, including 17 year olds, have an appropriate adult when receiving a youth caution. Section 41 Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015 amends section 66ZA Crime and Disorder Act 1998. See our legal update. (back)
First published: March 27, 2015
Last updated: September 17, 2015
