The Youth Justice Project (YJP) is a new legal service designed to empower young people by addressing the underlying issues involved in criminal offending and guiding them toward more positive futures. Through a holistic approach focused on prevention, early intervention, and rehabilitation, YJP aims to create meaningful change.
The YJP provides integrated legal services and psychosocial support to young people experiencing mental health challenges who have encountered the criminal justice system. Our team works collaboratively with each young person to ensure they understand their rights, the criminal law process, and the steps needed to navigate their case.
We offer a contemporary, integrated service where a lawyer and a key worker work together to provide both expert legal advice and practical support. Our lawyer provides guidance through criminal proceedings, ensuring the young person understands the charges, the legal options, and how to prepare for court. Meanwhile, our key worker helps the young person to set personal goals, connect with support services, and address challenges such as housing, education, and mental health.
Following on from the success of the Care and Protection pilot project, RLS is leveraging its expertise in interdisciplinary legal service delivery to provide this wrap-around service that aims guide the young person through the legal system with confidence, while also helping them build a foundation for a better future.
This project offers dedicated assistance and legal representation to young people in the Children’s Court, including the newly dedicated CLMI Court.
You can make a referral for yourself, a family member or client via our webform or get in touch for more information around eligibility and referrals at [email protected] or on 08 9328 8012.
