Does an under-18 need an appropriate adult?

Yes — a juvenile must not be interviewed about an offence without an appropriate adult except in limited urgent circumstances (Code C para 11.15).

Youth Custody Rights Kent — Under 18 Guide

Introduction

If someone under 18 is detained at a Kent police station, PACE Code C provides extra safeguards: an appropriate adult, additional welfare checks, and restrictions on interview without proper support.

Full guide: youth custody rights.

Police Station Agent is a private defence website operated by Robert Cashman — NOT Kent Police. Legal services are delivered through Tuckers Solicitors LLP (SRA ID: 127795).

Youth custody rights at Kent police stations

Key takeaways

Juveniles must have an appropriate adult for interview in most cases.
Parents or carers should be informed — see family instructing a solicitor.
Free legal advice is available under PACE section 58.
Welfare and vulnerability reviews apply under Code C.

Kent custody suites and youth detention

Medway, Gravesend, Tonbridge and Canterbury operate youth custody procedures. Voluntary interviews for under-18s also require appropriate adult presence in most cases.

Related guides

Conclusion

This article is general information for people attending Kent police stations. For advice about your own case, speak to a qualified solicitor before interview.

Sources

GOV.UK — PACE Code C 2023 — paragraphs 1.5, 11.15–11.20
CPS — Vulnerable suspects guidance
SRA register — Tuckers Solicitors LLP (127795)

General information only — not legal advice about any individual case. While every care is taken to keep information accurate, errors may occur and the law changes. Do not rely on this page instead of advice from a qualified solicitor. If you believe something is incorrect, contact us to report a content error. Statutory references and Code C paragraphs are summarised for readability; refer to the official published versions linked above.