In Trouble With the Law
Rules & Laws
Rules and Laws are there to protect you and keep you and others safe.
That’s why breaking the law is a serious matter.
Traffic Laws
If you break these laws then usually if you give the correct details the police would report the matter for an Inspector to decide what action to take. However if you give false details or the offence is Drink/Drug Driving or Driving whilst Disqualified you will be arrested instead.Criminal Law
These more serious offences are usually dealt with by arrest so that the crime can be investigated by interviewing you.
Decision
If there is sufficient evidence of the offence to send you to court, then either an Inspector or the Crown Prosecution Service would decide what action to take.Summons
A summons would be sent telling you to attend court. If you fail to turn up a warrant will be issued for your arrest.Reprimand
If you are 17 or under and this is your first minor offence then you may be offered a Reprimand. This is the first step towards a criminal record
Warning
If this is your 2nd offence or the offence is more serious you may get a final Warning. There are no more chances - Next time it’s COURT !
Court
You would be charged and bailed to attend court unless you are kept at the police station to be taken to court. If found Guilty at court then you now have a Criminal Conviction. This is kept on record. Employers will want to see this record before employing you. Convictions can also hinder travelling abroad.Why not play our The Final Warning Scheme which takes you through the system mentioned above and allows you to see the outcomes of your decisions at each step, by clicking the link below.
Youth Offending Team
They will see you if you have a Reprimand, Final Warning or if you are sent to Court. They are there to help you stay away from crime.Legal Advice
If you are arrested or the Police want to formally interview you, then you are entitled to free legal advice. At the police station your rights will be given to you. You can have someone told of your arrest, speak to a solicitor and read the police codes of conduct. If you are under 17 your parents or guardians will be informed and asked to attend.
You can also download a PDF copy of this document to use as handouts in a classroom environment or to give to a child (children) in your care, by clicking the link below.