What is the role of a defence solicitor?
A defence solicitor represents the young person appearing in court and acts independently, in their best interests. The young person appearing in court is the person they are working for, not their parents or other professionals. They take instructions from the young person and provide them with legal advice on the charge, procedure and plea (guilty or not guilty). They also speak for the young person in the court. All young people appearing in court are entitled to be represented by a solicitor. The solicitor can be one chosen by the young person or the duty solicitor. Legal aid is available to pay for these services.
