Child Criminal Exploitation 2

This is the second of 2 Masterclasses about Child Criminal Exploitation and will help lawyers better represent exploited children who end up in Court.

Lawyers will gain specialist knowledge about:

• Expert witnesses, what kind of expert and what are their limitations in light of Brecani decision.
• When to apply for severance
• The legal defences available if a defence lawyer believes their child client has been exploited
• Special measures and modifications to the trial process for exploited children
• Mitigation when a child client has been exploited
• How to apply to the CCRC for a child with convictions that stem from them being a victim of explotiation
• Slavery and Trafficking Risk Orders
• Slavery and Trafficking Prevention Orders

Earlier this year the MoJ announced a financial uplift for lawyers representing children in the youth court. The MoJ have announced plans to establish the Child Advocate Specialist Panel – Crime which may ultimately create a register of specialist lawyers.

YJLC have launched a once a month Masterclass Series for lawyers representing children in criminal proceedings. The masterclasses give lawyers practical and tactical insights into applying youth justice law and procedure effectively, with real case studies that illustrate the strategies and techniques that make a difference in court. Each session is designed to sharpen your case preparation and advocacy skills, helping you secure the best possible outcomes for children.

These masterclasses support the knowledge and competencies required by the Bar Standards Board and the Solicitors Regulation Authority for representing children in criminal cases, and they count towards your CPD requirements.

Trainer

Aika Stephenson
Aika is one of the UK’s leading youth justice solicitors and the Legal Director of Just for Kids Law. With over 20 years’ experience representing children in criminal proceedings, Aika brings unparalleled insight into the realities of youth defence work. Twice named Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year, she is also the author of In Their Defence: Fighting for Youth Justice One Child at a Time — a powerful account of her work and the systemic challenges faced by young defendants.