Criminal Advocacy - The Youth Court BPP University

Overview

Youth justice is a highly specialised area, and both regulators and courts expect advocates to understand the distinct procedures and principles that apply to children and young people.

This Criminal Advocacy - The Youth Court course at BPP University gives you a clear and practical grounding in Youth Court practice, from allocation and remand decisions to sentencing options and recent legislative changes.

With up‑to‑date case law, structured guidance and practical examples, you’ll develop the confidence and competence needed to appear effectively in the Youth Court.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course you will be able to:

• Explain the differences between criminal proceedings involving children and young people and those involving adults
• Identify the procedural adaptations required to ensure engagement and effective participation by young defendants
• Understand and apply the range of non‑court disposals available, including youth cautions
• Navigate key Youth Court case law, legislation and guidance on allocation between the Youth Court, Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court
• Apply the legislative framework for bail and remand, including remand to youth detention and local authority accommodation
• Advise on the full range of Youth Court sentencing options, including Referral Orders and the Sentencing Council’s Overarching Principles
• Use relevant provisions of the Sentencing Act 2020 when dealing with children and young people
• Understand the impact of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 and the Judicial Review and Courts Act 2022 on Youth Court practice