Law Society Skillnet, in collaboration with Oberstown Children Detention Campus, has organised a live webinar on how best to advocate for young people.

Children who come into conflict with the law are known to have complex unmet needs, and often present with poor educational experiences, health concerns, and trauma experience.

These circumstances require committed advocacy on their behalf if they are to enjoy access to justice and have their rights protected. 

The event will take place on Tuesday, 10 May.

Views and experiences of court

The idea for this seminar came from the young people in the Oberstown campus, who say that they do not understand what is going on in court. 

The aim of the seminar is to present research on their perspectives on their court experiences, to highlight how these problems might be overcome, and to discuss how best to advocate effectively for young people in conflict with the law in a manner that protects their rights. 

The seminar topics include:

• Characteristics of young people in Oberstown, and the impact of the court experience on Oberstown,
• Young people’s views and experiences of court from their perspective,
• The role of the lawyer in advocating for young people in court,
• Engaging with juveniles in a court setting – best practice.

Chair and speakers:

• Judge John O’Connor,
• Damien Hernon (director, Oberstown),
• Gráinne Smith (advocacy officer, Oberstown),
• Professor Ursula Kilkelly (UCC and chair of the board of management at Oberstown),
• Niamh Kelly (solicitor, Michael J Staines & Co).