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As a parent or guardian of a child charged with a criminal offence, it is vital to get the best advice and representation. The Children’s Court of Victoria has a unique purpose and process compared to adult courts, and working with a lawyer who has specific experience and knowledge of how it operates is essential to securing the best outcome for your child.
Ian Crisp regularly represents children and their families in the Children’s Court, handling cases that are both minor and complex. He can provide the expert guidance needed to navigate this sensitive legal process.
Understanding the Children’s Court of Victoria
The Children’s Court has jurisdiction to hear cases relating to a child if they were charged with the offence before they turned nineteen years of age. The court’s primary aim is to deal with children in a way that is sensitive to their age and development, with an emphasis on rehabilitation. It handles a wide range of matters, from summary offences to the most serious indictable crimes.
Focus on Rehabilitation, Not Just Punishment
One of the key differences between the Children’s Court and an adult court lies in the primary goal of sentencing. While adult courts focus on punishment and deterrence, the Children’s Court is required to consider the child’s rehabilitation as its paramount concern. This is an important distinction that directly impacts legal strategy and potential outcomes. An experienced lawyer can present a case that highlights your child’s capacity for rehabilitation, which can lead to a more constructive and positive result.
Sentencing and Legal Outcomes
If a young person is found guilty, there are various sentencing options available that are aimed at supporting their rehabilitation. These can range from less formal orders to more serious penalties. An experienced Children’s Court lawyer has a thorough understanding of all the options, which may include:
- Good behaviour bonds
- Diversion programs
- Youth supervision orders
- Community-based orders
- Detention in a youth justice centre
With expert legal assistance, you can work to secure an outcome that avoids a formal conviction, wherever possible, and provides the best foundation for your child’s future.
How Ian Crisp Can Help
Supporting your child through a criminal charge can be an incredibly stressful experience for the entire family. As a lawyer who specialises in matters heard in the Children’s Court, Ian Crisp has a deep understanding of the court’s unique workings and the penalties that can be imposed. He can:
- Provide personal representation at every stage of the process.
- Offer expert advice on the available sentencing options.
- Support you and your child both before, during, and after proceedings.
- Present the case in the best possible way, focusing on rehabilitation and a positive outcome.
Contact Ian today for a confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions – Children's Court
The Children’s Court can hear a criminal case if the child was charged with the offence before they turned nineteen years of age.
The Children’s Court has a different focus and goal for sentencing. While adult courts focus on punishment, the Children’s Court prioritises the rehabilitation of the young person.
Not necessarily. The court has various sentencing options, some of which do not result in a conviction being recorded. A lawyer can work to secure an outcome that avoids a criminal record where possible.
The most important step is to seek legal advice from a lawyer who specialises in Children’s Court matters. Early intervention from a lawyer is crucial to protect your child’s rights and prepare the best possible case.
Possible sentences can range from a diversion program or a good behaviour bond to a youth supervision order or, in the most serious cases, detention in a youth justice centre.
A specialist lawyer can help you navigate the unique legal process, provide expert advice on all available sentencing options, and present a compelling case to the court that focuses on rehabilitation and securing a positive outcome for your child’s future.