Training for lawyers working on cases where the best interests of the child is relevant
2- 5pm, 11 October 2012 at the Howard League for Penal Reform, London (3 CPD points)
In conjunction with the Association of Prison Lawyers, this training session is aimed at lawyers working on cases where the best interests of the child may be a relevant consideration, including working directly with children, as well as adults who care for children and other issues impacting on children more broadly.
Speakers include James Dixon who appeared in the Supreme Court case of HH v Italy earlier this year concerning the principle of the best interests of the child, Louise Bowers, a forensic psychologist and ex-parole board member with extensive experience of working with children and adolescents, and Laura Janes, a solicitor specialising in representing children and young people in prison and public law matters.
The best interests of children principle has broad application and can be used to strategic advantage in the prison and criminal context more generally. This can be both where children are directly and indirectly impacted by decisions and policies. Examples of where children may be indirectly affected include the location of adult prisoners, the terms of their release on licence and issues of priority where a child may well benefit from more timely consideration. Many policies seem vulnerable to challenge on this basis.
The training will cover:
- overview of the law relating to children’s best interests and Article 8 case law;
- domestic and international law and how it affects decisions relating to children and their families in the prison system;
- overview of the prison population and system for children;
- representing children: child friendly guidelines and special considerations;
- practical guidance: risk assessment tools used to assess children and understanding children’s development in a forensic context;
- overview of relevant provisions of the Children Act 1989 as it applies to children and their families in the prison system; and
- application of principles to prison law, including resettlement, parole, applications for release on temporary licence
This seminar is £60 to Members of the APL and the Howard League, £90 to non-members and £75 for students and charitable organisations. 3 CPD Points
Please e-mail bookings@associationofprisonlawyers.co.uk to book a place for you and your colleagues.
Places are strictly limited, so please book a place as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Venue: The Howard League for Penal Reform, 1 Ardleigh Road, London. N1 4HS
Booking forms are available below or email bookings@associationofprisonlawyers.co.uk
Download the flyer here.
Download a booking form here.
This event will be repeated in Manchester in the new year.