COVID 19: Young People and the Criminal Justice

Leah Connolly

Solicitor

Youth Practitioners' Association

Emma Heath

Barrister

9 Bedford Row

Youth Practitioners' Association

Primary Legislation:

Coronavirus Act 2020 (enacted 20th March 2020)

The Public Health Act 1984

Delegated Legislation – Regulations:

Guidance

What are the relevant Regulations when considering Youths?

Regulation 8 - Powers

Regulation 9 – what is the punishment?

Regulation 10 - Fixed Penalty Notices

Limitations of the Law

Best Practice & Safeguarding Young People

Diversion of Young People from the Police Station

Disposals from the Police Station

ACPO Gravity Matrix

Informal Disposals

Deferred Prosecutions - "Outcome 22"

Youth Cautions

Youth Conditional Cautions

Best Practice & Safeguarding Young People

Courts

Bail & Young People

"… custody can be harmful and difficult for children in ordinary times and children's experience in custody during the Covid-19 pandemic is particularly difficult."

Already a change in the tide?