Fines and Children’s Court
- Over 30 years experience in the criminal justice system
- Track record of success
- Nationally acclaimed expertise
Free Legal Advice 24/7
-
Ropes
-
Non-Accountable Undertaking
-
Accountable Undertaking
-
Good Behaviour Bond
-
Fines
-
Probation
-
Youth Supervision Order (YSO)
-
Youth Attendance Order (YAO)
-
Imprisonment
-
Youth Detention
-
Criminal Charges
-
Parole
-
Child been Charged with a Crime
-
Category A Serious Youth Offence
-
Category B Serious Youth Offence
What Is the Importance of Representation in the Children’s Court?
If your child has been charged with a criminal offense, it is crucial to engage a law firm experienced in handling criminal offenses and knowledgeable about sentencing principles.
The Children’s Court can be an intimidating environment, especially for children, and it deals with criminal offenses committed by youth seriously, often imposing strict penalties.
Why Seek Immediate Legal Advice?
The Children’s Court process is complex, with a significant amount of evidence to consider. Engaging legal advice promptly is critical to ensure that your child’s case is prepared with attention to all relevant details. MK Law’s Children’s Court lawyers have extensive experience representing children in this specialised jurisdiction, offering guidance on navigating the process and presenting strong plea and defence strategies.
MK Law’s Approach:
MK Law’s team includes expert Children’s Court lawyers who:
- Conduct thorough, confidential consultations to understand the details of each case.
- Offer advice on possible penalties and help clients determine appropriate responses, such as pleading guilty or not guilty.
- Appear in the Children’s Court daily, ensuring familiarity with effective strategies for plea and defence.
Preparation and Strategy:
MK Law prepares defence strategies for children, including:
- Investigating and gathering evidence.
- Cross-examining witnesses and challenging the prosecution’s case.
- Presenting evidence, including character references, witness statements, and expert reports to support the defence.
Purpose of the Children’s Court:
The Children’s Court is focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment. It provides a safer, more supportive environment than adult courts and offers tailored interventions to meet the specific needs of each child. The Court promotes a collaborative approach, engaging professionals like youth justice workers and psychologists to support children and families throughout the process.
When Does a Matter Proceed to the Children’s Court?
The Children’s Court has jurisdiction over offenses committed by individuals aged 10-17. Children charged before their 19th birthday may have their cases heard in the Children’s Court, provided the offense fits within the court’s criminal division. More serious crimes (such as murder or manslaughter) are referred to higher courts like the County or Supreme Courts.
Sentencing Options in the Children’s Court:
The Children’s Court provides alternative sentencing options designed to be flexible and supportive. Possible sentences under section 360 of the Children, Youth, and Families Act 2005 (CYFA) include:
- Youth Residential Centre or Youth Justice Centre Orders: These orders involve detention and are a last resort.
- Rehabilitation Programs and Diversions: Options like the “Ropes” program provide therapy or education-based interventions, with no criminal record if successfully completed.
- Good Behaviour Bonds, Probation Orders, and Supervision Orders: These alternatives focus on community support and tailored supervision without necessarily leading to a conviction.
- Financial Fines: While rare due to children’s limited financial means, the Court can impose fines under certain circumstances.
Sentencing Guidelines and Considerations:
The Children’s Court sentencing guidelines under section 363 of the CYFA aim to support and rehabilitate rather than punish. Factors considered by the Court include:
- The child’s personal circumstances, family relationships, and education.
- The offense’s nature, gravity, and impact on victims.
- Evidence of early guilty pleas, involvement of drugs or alcohol, and the child’s criminal history.
Important Considerations:
The Court seeks to impose sentences that consider:
- Preserving family relationships and minimising disruptions to education or employment.
- Ensuring the child understands their legal responsibilities.
- Avoiding stigma that could impact future employment, relationships, and travel opportunities.
Legislative Framework and Age Requirements:
Under section 344 of the CYFA, children under 10 cannot be found guilty of criminal offenses. The legislation reflects the understanding that young children lack the intent necessary to commit a criminal act.
Recent Children’s Court Cases
MK Law has experience handling complex cases in the Children’s Court, often involving urgent matters and sensitive charges. Through a strong defence strategy, the firm has helped achieve positive outcomes tailored to each child’s unique circumstances.
-
Ropes
-
Non-Accountable Undertaking
-
Accountable Undertaking
-
Good Behaviour Bond
-
Fines
-
Probation
-
Youth Supervision Order (YSO)
-
Youth Attendance Order (YAO)
-
Imprisonment
-
Youth Detention
-
Criminal Charges
-
Parole
-
Child been Charged with a Crime
-
Category A Serious Youth Offence
-
Category B Serious Youth Offence
Testimonials
What people Say
-
I found myself again before the magistrates court for an indictable offence, I was worried about receiving a jail sentence because of my age and h... Read More5/5
-
Thanks Marcus Denning for being with me from start to end and to give me a fantastic outcome from my trial..👏👏👏🎖🎖🎖🎖🎖🎖Fi... Read More5/5
-
Professional. Transparent. Experienced. Marcus Denning left no stone unturned, sealing a complete win at trial. Our experience at MK LAW was beyon... Read More5/5
-
I recently used the services of Marie Lukic of MK law. She is very professional, dedicated and knowledgeable lawyer. Extremely grateful to have Ma... Read More5/5
What happens next:
If your child is facing criminal charges in the Children’s Court, seeking legal representation promptly can make a critical difference in achieving a fair and supportive outcome.
At MK Law, our skilled Children’s Court lawyers understand the complexities of youth justice and work diligently to advocate for your child’s best interests. From guiding you through each step of the court process to building a tailored defence strategy, we are here to support you and your child.
Contact MK Law for expert legal assistance at any time, 24/7, on 1800 130 120, or reach out via email at marcus.mklawfirm.com.au.
Free Legal Advice 24/7
Contact Us
Call Anytime For Free Legal Advice 24/7
Top 5 firms by reputation dealing with traffic and criminal law matters.
- 2/212 Barkly Street, St Kilda Victoria, 3182 Australia
- 1800 130 120
- marcus@mklawfirm.com.au