Lawyer for young people charged in Wagga Wagga and the Riverina
When a young person aged 10 to 17 is charged, the case is usually heard in the Children's Court, which is closed to the public and focused on rehabilitation. John began his career prosecuting in the Children's Court and now defends young people and supports their families through the process.
Dr John Weir, Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law- Who goes to the Children's Court?
- Young people who were aged 10 to 17 when the offence happened.
- Is it open to the public?
- No. The public is excluded, although the media can usually stay, and a young person's name generally cannot be published.
- Can it be dealt with without court?
- Often. Warnings, cautions and youth justice conferences are available for many offences.
- Will my child get a criminal record?
- In the Children's Court, a conviction cannot be recorded for an offence committed by a child under 16.
What John handles for young people
Charges, bail and the options that keep a young person out of court where possible.
- Children's Court charges
- Bail for young people
- Cautions and youth justice conferences
- AVOs involving young people
- Traffic charges heard with other offences
- Sentence and rehabilitation plans
- Serious charges in higher courts
What happens when a young person is charged
- 1
Police contact
A young person must have a support person present when questioned by police. They should also speak to a lawyer first.
- 2
Diversion is considered
For many offences, police must consider a warning, caution or youth justice conference instead of charging.
- 3
First court date
The case is called in the Children's Court. John can seek a referral to a youth justice conference where that suits the case.
- 4
Plea and hearing
If the young person pleads not guilty, the case goes to a hearing. For children aged 10 to 13, the prosecution must also prove they knew what they did was seriously wrong.
- 5
Outcome
The court focuses on rehabilitation, with options from a dismissal or caution to a good behaviour bond, probation or, rarely, a control order.
What John does for young people and families
- Advises before any police interview
- Argues for cautions and youth justice conferences where available
- Applies for bail and workable conditions
- Works with schools, counsellors and youth services to build a plan
- Explains the process to parents and carers in plain English
- Keeps the young person's future in view at every step
Dr John Weir
Accredited Specialist in Criminal Law
Over 30 years in court, as prosecutor, Legal Aid solicitor, barrister and solicitor advocate.
Call JohnQuestions people ask
Related
Bail and custody
If police have refused bail, the person must be brought before a court as soon as practicable, and that first appearance is the time to apply for bail.
Bail and custodyCriminal charges
If you have been charged with a criminal offence, John can advise you before your first court date and represent you from the first mention to the end of the case.
Criminal chargesMental health and cognitive impairment
If you live with a mental health condition or a cognitive impairment, the law gives the court other options.
Mental health and cognitive impairmentTalk to John about your matter.
Call now, or leave your number and the court, and John will call you back. [Call back timing]
0429 452 225jw@johnweir.com.auPO Box 469, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650