It is a priority to make sure that any person arrested and in police custody are properly represented by experienced lawyers. this applies to all persons including youths under the age of 18.
Children and young persons under the age of 18 in Northern Ireland are treated as a vulnerable group of persons when in police custody after arrest. They are entitled to both the presence of an Appropriate Adult and the free legal services of a solicitor experienced in dealing with both the young person and the legal processes which are available for such cases. Free legal aid is available to all persons arrested and in a police custody station.
Our expert criminal defence team including Diarmaid Kelly, Meadbh O’Dowd and Cathal Mullan can assist you together with the other experienced criminal defence lawyers in Harte Coyle Collins. All have the expertise to guide you through the stressful experience of an arrest and questioning of a person in police custody.
We will ensure that the best possible outcome is achieved for the young person and will also look after any court proceedings in the Youth Court should these be pursued by the police or the Public Prosecution Service.
Contact our out of hours phone line on 02890 278227. This landline will connect to the on call solicitor for our office at the weekend or out of office hours.
September 2026
