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Youth crime is a complex issue, shaped by family circumstances, social pressures, and wider community influences. If you’re in Wales, seeking advice from the best solicitors in Cardiff is a good move, especially when navigating the legal challenges that can arise.
Why do young people offend? What can families, schools and communities do to help? And what are the long-term consequences, both legally and socially, of early encounters with the justice system?
This guide breaks it all down, from the causes of youth crime to the ripple effects it can have on lives and futures.
What Do We Mean by Youth Crime?
Youth crime typically refers to offences committed by people aged 10 to 17 — the legal age of criminal responsibility in and Wales. These offences can range from minor antisocial behaviour to serious acts like assault, theft, or drug offences.
The number of young offenders has decreased in recent years. However, concerns remain about specific types of crime, such as knife crime and gang-related activity.
For more information, visit the Youth Justice Board site.
Common Causes of Youth Crime
There’s no single reason why a young person might offend, but several risk factors often play a role:
- Family breakdown or instability
- Poverty or social deprivation
- Exclusion from school or low educational attainment
- Peer pressure and gang affiliation
- Unaddressed mental health or behavioural issues
- Lack of positive adult role models
These challenges don’t excuse criminal behaviour — but they help us understand it, and more importantly, address it.
The Role of the Family and Community
Families and communities can be powerful protective factors. Children who feel supported, listened to, and guided are less likely to turn to crime.
Strategies that help include:
- Open communication and active listening at home
- Involvement in positive extracurricular activities
- Strong relationships with mentors, teachers or community leaders
Organisations like Catch22 offer youth justice services that focus on prevention and rehabilitation, working with young people before they enter the criminal system.
Legal Consequences for Young Offenders
The youth justice system is designed to be more rehabilitative than punitive. That said, young people can still face serious consequences, such as:
- Referral orders
- Youth rehabilitation orders
- Custodial sentences in youth detention centres
Having a criminal record — even for a minor offence — can limit future opportunities in employment, education, and travel.
Solicitors play a vital role in helping young people understand their rights and navigate legal processes with the least long-term harm.
The Importance of Early Intervention
The earlier support is offered, the better the outcomes. This can include:
- Mental health services
- School support and reintegration
- Restorative justice programmes
Projects like the Youth Endowment Fund focus on funding community-based solutions that reduce serious youth violence. Their research-driven approach helps identify what works — and what doesn’t.
How Can the Legal System Help?
While punishment is part of the system, many youth justice professionals focus on:
- Redirecting young people toward education and training
- Helping families access support services
- Advocating for fair treatment regardless of background
A skilled solicitor will also ensure that a young person understands:
- The charges they’re facing
- The legal process ahead
- Their rights during questioning and trial
What Parents and Carers Can Do
It’s not easy parenting a teenager — especially one who’s acting out. But you’re not powerless.
Some helpful steps include:
- Seeking help early if you notice behavioural changes
- Working with schools and local support services
- Encouraging positive peer relationships
Being present, setting boundaries, and showing consistent care go further than you might think.
It Takes a Village
Youth crime isn’t just a legal issue — it’s a social one. And tackling it means looking beyond headlines and statistics, and seeing the young person behind the offence.
Families, educators, solicitors and communities all have a part to play in prevention and rehabilitation.
Because when we work together to support our young people — especially those at risk — we’re not just reducing crime. We’re building futures.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. If you or someone you know is involved in the youth justice system, speak to a qualified solicitor as soon as possible.
