My Child Has Been Arrested: What Happens Now?

Finding out that your child has been arrested is an extremely distressing experience for any parent. You may feel shocked, confused, and unsure about what happens next. Understanding the process can help you stay calm and ensure your child’s rights are protected from the very beginning.

At What Age Can a Child Be Arrested in the UK?

In England and Wales, children aged 10 to 17 can be arrested and investigated for criminal offences . However, the youth justice system recognises their vulnerability and provides additional safeguards compared to adults.

This guide explains what to expect and how specialist legal support can help.

My Child Has Been Arrested. What Happens First?

If your child is arrested, they will usually be taken to a police station for questioning. The police must inform you as soon as possible, including where your child is being held and why.

In some cases, instead of your child being arrested, the police may invite your child to attend a voluntary interview. However, if an arrest is considered necessary, they can be detained under police powers.

At the police station, your child has important rights, including:

• The right to free legal advice
• The right to have a parent or guardian informed
• The right to support from an Appropriate Adult

What Is the Role of the Appropriate Adult?

An Appropriate Adult is a key safeguard in youth cases. This can be a parent, guardian, or another responsible adult.

Their role is to:

• Ensure your child understands what is happening
• Support them during interviews and procedures
• Help safeguard their welfare and fair treatment

An Appropriate Adult must be present during police interviews and certain procedures, such as searches . However, they are not a substitute for a solicitor and cannot provide legal advice.

What Happens at the Police Station When Arrested?

Once at the police station, your child may be:

• Searched
• Asked to provide fingerprints or samples
• Interviewed under caution

Before any interview takes place, your child should speak to a solicitor. This is crucial. A solicitor will explain the situation, advise on how to respond, and ensure the police act fairly.

Children should always be interviewed in the presence of both a solicitor and an Appropriate Adult.

In most cases, a child can be held in custody for up to 24 hours without charge, although cases are usually dealt with more quickly.

What Decisions Can the Police Make When a Child Has Been Arrested?

After the police interview, the police will decide what action to take. This depends on the seriousness of the offence and the available evidence.

Possible outcomes include:

• No Further Action: If there is insufficient evidence, your child may be released without any further steps.

• Community Resolution: This is an informal outcome, often involving an apology or agreement to repair harm. It does not result in a criminal record.

• Youth Caution or Conditional Caution: Your child may receive a formal warning, sometimes with conditions such as attending programmes or support services. These are recorded and may be referred to in future matters.

Charge and Court Proceedings: If the offence is serious, your child may be charged and required to attend court.

If My Child Commits a Crime Will My Child Go to Court?

Not all cases go to court. Many youth cases are dealt with outside the court system, particularly for first-time or less serious offences.

If your child is charged, they will usually attend a Youth Court, which is designed to be less formal than adult courts. Proceedings are private, and your child will typically be addressed by their first name.

For more serious offences, the case may be transferred to the Crown Court.

If My Child Commits a Crime Will They Be Released on  Bail or Release Under Investigation?

If your child is not charged immediately, they may be:

• Released on bail (with or without conditions), or
• Released under investigation while enquiries continue

Each option means the case is ongoing, and further action may follow.

How Can Parents Help When Your Child Has Been Arrested?

As a parent, your role is vital. You can support your child by:

• Remaining calm and reassuring them
• Ensuring they have legal representation
• Attending the police station as the Appropriate Adult (if appropriate)
• Encouraging them to follow legal advice

You may also be asked to engage with support services, such as parenting programmes or Youth Offending Teams, particularly if concerns arise about ongoing behaviour.

Why Specialist Legal Advice Matters When a Child has Been Arrested

Youth crime cases require a sensitive and experienced approach. The decisions made at the police station stage can have long-term consequences for your child’s future.

A specialist youth defence solicitor can:

• Protect your child’s legal rights
• Advise on the best course of action during interview
• Challenge unfair treatment or procedures
• Work towards the most favourable outcome

Early legal intervention can often prevent matters from escalating unnecessarily.

How Stryders Can Help

At Stryders we understand how worrying it is when your child comes into contact with the police. Our experienced defence team provides clear, compassionate advice and robust representation at every stage of the process.

Whether your child has been arrested, invited for interview, or charged with an offence, we are here to support both you and your family.

In summary

While an arrest is serious, it does not automatically mean your child will be charged or convicted. The youth justice system aims to balance accountability with rehabilitation. Understanding the process and seeking expert legal advice early can make a significant difference to the outcome.

If your child has been arrested, acting quickly and getting the right support is essential. You should contact Stryders immediately by calling our 24-hour emergency line on 0333 577 2999 or you can contact us via our online form for more information.