Why bail youths ?

Youth bailed for synagogue Arson – explained for non-lawyers On 21sth April  17-year-old appeared before Westminster Magistrates Court and pleaded guilty to arson without intent to endanger life — an offence under Section 1(1) of the Criminal Damage Act 1971. But why, after admitting guilt, was the teenager bailed ? For young people under aged … Continued

Sentencing as you turn 18 – Beware the Cliff Edge

Ellis Thomas pleaded guilty to a relatively minor public order offence and was sentenced to a community penalty. This penalty becomes the subject of Court of Appeal proceedings due to the following set of facts: “It was imposed on the appellant in the Crown Court not long after his 18th birthday for an offence committed … Continued