The Police On Teenagers

The Police On Teenagers

• All people, including teenagers, can be questioned by the police at any age. They have to give their correct name and address if asked. If they give a false name and address they can be charged by the police. However as a general rule people do not have to make a verbal or written statement unless they wish to.
• No person, including young people, has to answer any other questions, give statements or sign papers. However, it's usually sensible to do so if the situation can be explained simply. It's important not to be rude or aggressive with the police.
• Generally police can only require a young person to go with them if they are under arrest, but there are some exceptions:
  • If a driver of a vehicle tests positive to an alcohol test (Random Breath Test), they may be required to go with the police for further testing and possible arrest
  • If the child is away from home or school or not under supervision of an adult, the police may suspect they are in physical or moral danger (for example, hanging around with drug dealers), the police may have the legal right to take the child home or to school.
• If a young person is under arrest the police must tell them they are under arrest and why. The police are required by law to contact their parents or legal guardian as soon as possible. If neither are available then they can call a relevant agency such as Family and Children's Services.
• A juvenile should ask to have mum or dad present. If there is not a parent or responsible adult present the juvenile should politely state that they do not choose to answer any questions.
• If a young person is between 10 and 18 years old and breaks the law, the police may give them one of the following:
  • an informal caution or verbal warning
  • a formal caution
  • refer them to a juvenile justice team
  • charge them with an offence and require them to appear in court.
• If a young person is found guilty of an offence, the courts have the option to:
  • require them to attend a lecture
  • put them and their parents on a 'good behaviour bond'
  • place them with a youth community based worker
  • order them to pay a fine, court costs or restitution
  • place them in a detention centre, prison or work camp.

Parenting tips & parenting articles copyright & courtesy
Department for Community Devlp, Australia.

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