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Young people and the law

Includes legal rights, support for young victims of crime, Children's Hearings and cyber bullying.

  1. Smacking and children

    From 7 November 2020 all forms of physical punishment or physical discipline of children is against the law in Scotland.

  2. Being referred to the Children's Reporter

    What happens when a young person is referred to the Children's Reporter.

  3. Children and young people's rights

    Children have their own special rights on top of the ones everyone else gets.

  4. Children and young witnesses at court

    If you need to go to court and you’re not sure what will happen, you can get support to help you feel ok about talking at court.

  5. Children's hearings

    Find out what a children's hearing is, what happens before and during a hearing, where to get help, and how to complain about a hearing.

  6. Complain about the Scottish Children's Reporter Administration

    How to complain to the Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration (SCRA) if you’re unhappy with their service.

  7. Find your local Children's Reporter

    Find contact details and opening times for your local Children’s Reporter office.

  8. If a young person gets in trouble with the police

    What happens if a child or young person gets in trouble with the police – includes the age of criminal responsibility and children's hearings.

  9. Staying safe online

    Information about staying safe online, including: social media, apps, online fraud, cyber bullying, deleting your browser history and reporting online crime to the police.

  10. What happens at a children's hearing court case

    What happens when a children's hearing is sent to court – includes people in the courtroom, witnesses and what the sheriff can decide.

  11. Young victims of crime: support

    Advice and help if you’re a child or young person affected by crime, or their parent or guardian.

  12. Youth crime: support

    How to report a crime committed by a person under the age of 16, and what support is available.

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