Family and Friends Forum

Youth interview

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Crushed

Member since
July 2024

130 posts

Posted Sat February 8, 2025 10:16amReport post

Hi All,

I hope you're all okay.

We are still waiting for the first interview for our son. My husband/ his Dad had said he would go with him. I think a parent has to be present don't they? My husband was up all night worrying about it (we don't have a date yet)

For anyone who has been in this situation I'm guessing it's as bad as it sounds?

Any advice would be appreciated xx

Edited Sat February 8, 2025 10:17am

lostinthewoods

Member since
September 2024

95 posts

Posted Sat February 8, 2025 1:14pmReport post

As far as I know anyone under 18 has to have an 'appropriate adult' sit in on the interview. This doesn't have to be a parent - our local station employs people to act as appropriate adults - their job is simply to ensure that the young person understands everything that is going on. Of course they should also have a solicitor present but that can be the duty solicitor if you don't have one arranged.

im afraid I've not had experience of this personally, but I know someone who was employed at weekends as an 'appropriate adult'

Ajustcopingparent

Member since
August 2024

88 posts

Posted Sat February 8, 2025 10:24pmReport post

When my 16yr old was interviewed I sat in but was told I wasn't allowed to speak. The duty solicitor was also there.

Not going to lie it's not easy listening to then being questioned. For us we have no idea exactly what he's accused of. So some questions he couldn't answer and the solicitor stepped in.

It last just over an hour and if it had gone on longer I was going to say he need a break.

SoTired

Member since
March 2021

400 posts

Posted Sat February 8, 2025 11:54pmReport post

Hi,

I won't lie, it's one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. We had solicitor with us who advised no comment.



However, whilst it was harrowing and traumatising, the pain of it does fade with time. You will find the strength because there's no choice, you have to xx