Youth court procedure - Detention and Training orders

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Overview

Detention and Training Orders (DTOs) are a significant aspect of the youth justice system of England and Wales, combining punitive measures with rehabilitation for young offenders. For candidates preparing for the SQE1 FLK2 exam, a thorough understanding of DTOs is essential, as they are relevant to criminal law, sentencing principles, and youth justice procedures. This article provides a detailed examination of DTOs, their legal structure, application, and place within youth court proceedings.

Legal and Statutory Framework

Primary Legislation

DTOs are primarily governed by the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, especially sections 100 to 107, introduced to reform the youth justice system with a more structured rehabilitative approach.

Key provisions include:

  • Section 100: Establishes the structure and eligibility for DTOs
  • Section 102: Details the duration and components of DTOs
  • Section 104: Governs the supervision of offenders during the community phase

The Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000 also consolidates sentencing provisions related to DTOs.

Sentencing Guidelines

The Sentencing Council's "Sentencing Children and Young People – Definitive Guidelines," last updated in 2017, emphasize:

  1. The welfare principle in youth justice
  2. Considering the age and maturity of the offender
  3. Avoiding criminalization when possible
  4. Focusing on rehabilitation over punishment

These guidelines ensure sentences are proportionate to the offense and the circumstances.

Structure and Implementation of DTOs

Eligibility and Duration

DTOs apply to offenders aged 12 to 17 at conviction. The court must determine that a fine or community sentence is insufficient.

DTOs can be set for:

  • 4 months
  • 6 months
  • 8 months
  • 10 months
  • 12 months
  • 18 months
  • 24 months

Dual Component Structure

A DTO has two phases:

  1. Detention Phase: Half of the order is spent in custody, typically in a Young Offender Institution, Secure Training Centre, or Secure Children's Home.

  2. Supervision Phase: The second half occurs in the community under Youth Offending Team supervision.

This layout aims to transition youths smoothly from custody back to the community.

Application and Judicial Considerations

When considering a DTO, courts evaluate various factors:

Threshold for Imposition

The court must be convinced that:

  1. Only a serious offense justifies a DTO
  2. A Youth Rehabilitation Order is unsuitable or has failed

Proportionality and Totality

Courts consider:

  • The seriousness of the offense
  • Previous offending history
  • Public safety
  • The young person's welfare

Case Study: R v JW (2017) EWCA Crim 1501

This case serves as a guide for DTO application:

  • A 16-year-old received a 12-month DTO for robbery
  • The appeal court highlighted exploring custody alternatives
  • Emphasized using DTOs as a final option, especially for first offenses

Youth Offending Teams and Rehabilitation

Youth Offending Teams (YOTs) are essential for DTO implementation:

Pre-sentence Reports

YOTs prepare reports to help courts assess DTO suitability, covering:

  • The offender's background
  • Behavior analysis
  • Sentencing recommendations

Supervision and Support

During the community phase, YOTs handle:

  • Supervision meetings
  • Rehabilitation programs
  • Coordination with education and social services
  • Monitoring compliance

Case Example: Effective YOT Intervention

Consider Alex, a 15-year-old sentenced to an 8-month DTO for burglaries:

  • Engaged in programs during detention
  • Upon release, attended college and a restorative justice program
  • With YOT support, completed the DTO and continued education

This shows the potential for rehabilitation when supported effectively.

Psychological and Social Considerations

DTOs can pose psychological and social challenges for young offenders. YOTs aim to mitigate these through structured supervision, reducing the risk of reoffending.

Challenges and Criticisms

DTOs, while aiming to balance punishment and rehabilitation, face criticisms:

  1. Mixed results in reducing reoffending
  2. Disruption to education and family life
  3. Exposure to negative influences in custody
  4. Resource limitations affecting community phases

Appeals and Review

Grounds for Appeal

DTOs can be appealed for:

  • Misapplication of guidelines
  • Failure to consider alternative options
  • Excessive order length

Review Process

DTOs are regularly reviewed:

  • The Youth Court reviews orders periodically
  • Early release may be considered for good progress
  • Detention can be extended for serious breaches

Conclusion

Detention and Training Orders require a careful balance between punishment and rehabilitation. For SQE1 FLK2 candidates, understanding DTOs involves their legal framework, practical application, and place in the youth justice system.

Key points include:

  • Their basis in the Crime and Disorder Act 1998
  • The dual-phase structure of detention and community supervision
  • The essential role of Youth Offending Teams in support and implementation
  • Ongoing debates about their effectiveness
  • The importance of considering alternatives to custody
  • The binding nature of sentencing guidelines and focus on welfare principles
  • Appeal possibilities and regular reviews

Understanding these aspects will aid in exam preparation and provide a strong base for future practice in youth justice and criminal law.