MAGISTRATES' COURTS PART I GENERAL Citation and commencement. 1 These Rules may be cited as the Magistrates' Courts (Children and Young Persons) Rules 1988 and shall come into force on 1st August 1988. Interpretation. 2 1 Subject to rule 29 of these Rules, in these Rules the following expressions have the meanings hereby respectively assigned to them, that is to say:— “the Act of 1933” means the Children and Young Persons Act 1933 ; “the Act of 1963” means the Children and Young Persons Act 1963 ; “the Act of 1969” means the Children and Young Persons Act 1969 ; “the Act of 1980” means the Child Care Act 1980 ; “the Act of 1986” means the Children and Young Persons (Amendment) Act 1986 ; “child” means a person under the age of fourteen; “court” means a juvenile court except that in Part VII it means a magistrates' court, whether a juvenile court or not; “register” means the separate register kept for the juvenile court pursuant to rule 37 of these Rules; “young person” means a person who has attained the age of fourteen and is under the age of seventeen. 2 In these Rules, unless the context otherwise requires, any reference to a rule, Part or Schedule shall be construed as a reference to a rule contained in these Rules, a Part thereof or a Schedule thereto, and any reference in a rule to a paragraph shall be construed as a reference to a paragraph of that rule. Revocations and savings etc. 3 1 Subject to paragraph (3), the Rules specified in Schedule 1 are hereby revoked. 2 Subject to paragraph (3), the provisions of the Magistrates' Courts Rules 1981 shall have effect subject to these Rules. 3 Nothing in these Rules shall apply in connection with any proceedings begun before the coming into force thereof. PART II JUVENILE OFFENDERS Application of Part II. 4 This Part shall apply in the case of a child or young person brought before a court charged with an offence except that only rules 5 and 8(2) shall apply where the court is inquiring into the offence as examining justices. Assistance in conducting defence. 5 1 The court shall, except in any case where the child or young person is legally represented, allow his parent or guardian to assist him in conducting his defence, including the cross-examination of witnesses for the prosecution. 2 Where the parent or guardian cannot be found or cannot in the opinion of the court reasonably be required to attend, the court may allow any relative or other responsible person to take the place of the parent or guardian for the purposes of this Part. Duty of court to explain charge in simple language. 6 The court shall explain to the child or young person the substance of the charge in simple language suitable to his age and understanding. Duty of court to take plea of child or young person. 7 The court shall then ask the child or young person whether he pleads guilty or not guilty to the charge. Evidence in support of charge and cross-examination. 8 1 If the child or young person does not plead guilty the court shall hear the evidence of the witnesses in support of the charge. At the close of the evidence-in-chief of each witness the witness may be cross-examined by or on behalf of the child or young person. 2 If in any case where the child or young person is not legally represented or assisted in his defence as provided by rule 5, the child or young person, instead of asking questions by way of cross-examination, makes assertions, the court shall then put to the witness such questions as it thinks necessary on behalf of the child or young person and may for this purpose question the child or young person in order to bring out or clear up any point arising out of any such assertions. Evidence for defence. 9 If it appears to the court that a prima facie case is made out, the child or young person shall, if he is not legally represented, be told that he may give evidence or address the court, and the evidence of any witnesses shall be heard. Procedure after finding of guilt. 10 1 Where a child or young person is found guilty of an offence, whether after a plea of guilty or otherwise— a he and his parent or guardian, if present, shall be given an opportunity of making a statement; b the court shall take into consideration such information as to the general conduct, home surroundings, school record and medical history of the child or young person as may be necessary to enable it to deal with the case in his best interests and, in particular, shall take into consideration such information as aforesaid which is provided in pursuance of section 9 of the Act of 1969; c if such information as aforesaid is not fully available, the court shall consider the desirability of remanding the child or young person for such inquiry as may be necessary; d any written report of a probation officer, local authority, local education authority, educational establishment or registered medical practitioner may be received and considered by the court without being read aloud; and e if the court considers it necessary in the interests of the child or young person, it may require him or his parent or guardian, if present, to withdraw from the court. 2 The court shall arrange for copies of any written report before the court to be made available to: a the legal representative, if any, of the child or young person; b any parent or guardian of the child or young person who is present at the hearing; and c the child or young person, except where the court otherwise directs on the ground that it appears to it impracticable to disclose the report having regard to the age and understanding of the child or young person or undesirable to do so having regard to serious harm which might thereby be suffered by him. 3 In any case in which the child or young person is not legally represented and where a report which has not been made available to him in accordance with a direction under paragraph (2)(c) has been considered without being read aloud in pursuance of paragraph (1)(d) or where the child or young person, his parent or guardian has been required to withdraw from the court in pursuance of paragraph (1)(e), then— a the child or young person shall be told the substance of any part of the information given to the court bearing on his character or conduct which the court considers to be material to the manner in which the case should be dealt with unless it appears to it impracticable so to do having regard to his age and understanding; and b the parent or guardian of the child or young person, if present, shall be told the substance of any part of such information which the court considers to be material as aforesaid and which has reference to the character or conduct of the parent or guardian or to the character, conduct, home surroundings or health of the child or young person; and if such a person, having been told the substance of any part of such information, desires to produce further evidence with reference thereto, the court, if it thinks the further evidence would be material, shall adjourn the proceedings for the production thereof and shall, if necessary in the case of a report, require the attendance at the adjourned hearing of the person who made the report. Duty of court to explain manner in which it proposes to deal with case and effect of order. 11 1 Before finally disposing of the case or before remitting the case to another court in pursuance of section 56 of the Act of 1933, the court shall inform the child or young person and his parent or guardian, if present, or any person assisting him in his defence, of the manner in which it proposes to deal with the case and allow any of those persons so informed to make representations: Provided that the child or young person shall not be informed as aforesaid if the court considers it undesirable so to do. 2 On making any order, the court shall explain to the child or young person the general nature and effect of the order unless, in the case of an order requiring his parent or guardian to enter into a recognisance, it appears to it undesirable so to do. Notice to be given where remand is extended in absence of child or young person. 12 Where a child or young person has been remanded, and the period of remand is extended in his absence in accordance with section 48 of the Act of 1933, notice shall be given to him and his sureties (if any) of the date at which he will be required to appear before the court. PART III CARE PROCEEDINGS AND PROCEEDINGS RELATING TO CARE OR SUPERVISION ORDERS Application and interpretation of Part III. 13 1 This Part shall apply in connection with proceedings in a court in the case of any person in relation to whom proceedings are brought or proposed to be brought under— a any of the following provisions of the Act of 1969, namely:— i section 1 (care proceedings), ii section 15 (variation and discharge of supervision orders), iii section 21 (variation and discharge of care orders); b section 72 or 73 of the Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968 (persons subject to supervision requirements or orders moving from or to Scotland); c section 189 or 390 of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1975 (young person subject to Scottish probation order resident in England or Wales); or d regulations made under sections 21A and 39 of the Act of 1980 (authority to retain child in secure accommodation), except that rules 14, 20(2), 24 and 25 shall not apply in connection with proceedings under the enactments mentioned in sub-paragraphs (b) and (c) above, rules 14(3)(c) and (d) and 25 shall not apply in connection with proceedings of the kind mentioned in paragraph (d), and rule 26 shall apply only in connection with proceedings of that kind. 2 In this Part of the Rules the following expressions have the meanings hereby respectively assigned to them, that is to say:— “the applicant” means the person by whom proceedings are brought or proposed to be brought; “the appropriate local authority” means— in relation to proceedings under section 1 of the Act of 1969, the local authority to whom notice of the proceedings falls to be given under section 2(3) of that Act, in relation to proceedings under section 15 of the Act of 1969, the local authority whose area is named in the supervision order in pursuance of section 18(2)(a) of that Act, and in relation to proceedings under section 21 of the Act of 1969, the local authority to whose care the relevant infant is committed by the care order; “guardian” (except where it is used in the expression “guardian ad litem ”) has the same meaning as in section 70(1) and (2) of the Act of 1969; “the offence condition” means the condition set out in section 1(2)(f) of the Act of 1969; “the relevant infant” means a person in relation to whom proceedings are brought or proposed to be brought as mentioned in paragraph (1); “reside” has the meaning assigned to it by section 70(1) of the Act of 1969; “the respondent” means the relevant infant except that— in relation to proceedings under section 15 of the Act of 1969 in which the relevant infant is the applicant it means the supervisor of the relevant infant, and in relation to proceedings under section 21 of the Act of 1969 in which the relevant infant is the applicant it means the local authority to whose care the relevant infant is committed. Notice by person proposing to bring care etc. proceedings. 14 1 An applicant proposing to bring proceedings shall send a notice to the clerk of the court specifying the grounds for the proceedings and the names and addresses of the persons to whom a copy of the notice is sent in pursuance of paragraph (2). 2 Without prejudice to section 2(3) and 34(2) of the Act of 1969 and regulations made under sections 21A and 39 of the Act of 1980, the applicant shall— a send to each of the persons mentioned in paragraph (3) a copy of the said notice, and b notify each of those persons of the date, time and place appointed for the hearing unless a summons is issued for the purpose of securing his attendance thereat. 3 The persons referred to in paragraph (2) are the following persons other than the person who is the applicant— a the relevant infant, unless it appears to the applicant inappropriate to notify him in pursuance of paragraph (2), having regard to his age and understanding; b the parent or guardian of the relevant infant if the whereabouts of such parent or guardian is known to the applicant or can readily be ascertained by him; c any grandparent of the relevant infant if the whereabouts of such grandparent is known to the applicant or can readily be ascertained by him; d any foster parent or other person with whom the relevant infant has had his home for a period of, or periods amounting in total to, not less than 42 days, ending not more than six months before the date of the application, if the whereabouts of such a person is known to the applicant or can readily be ascertained by him; e the appropriate local authority; f where the proceedings are care proceedings brought under section 1 of the Act of 1969 and notice thereof falls to be given to a probation officer in pursuance of section 34(2) of the Act of 1969, that probation officer, and g where the proceedings are for the variation or discharge of a supervision order which names a person other than the appropriate authority as the supervisor, that supervisor. 4 In the case of an application to which this paragraph applies there shall be sent with the copy of the notice required by paragraph (2) to be sent to the respondent a notice stating that he should inform the clerk of the court as soon as practicable and not later than 14 days after the receipt of the notice whether or not he intends to oppose the application. 5 Paragraph (4) applies to— a an application under section 15(1) of the Act of 1969 for the discharge of a relevant supervision order or a supervision order made under section 21(2) of that Act on the discharge of a relevant care order; and b an application under section 21(2) of that Act for the discharge of a relevant care order or a care order made under section 15(1) of that Act on the discharge of a relevant supervision order. In this paragraph “relevant care order” means a care order made under section 1 of the Act of 1969 and “relevant supervision order” means a supervision order made under that section. Notice to parent or guardian of party status. 15 In any proceedings in which an order under section 32A of the Act of 1969 (conflict of interest between parent and child or young person) is made the court shall cause to be sent to the parent or guardian in respect of whom the order is made and to every other party to the proceedings notice that the order has been so made and of its effect under section 32A(4A) of the Act of 1969. Appointment and duties of guardian ad litem . 16 1 In any proceedings to which an order under section 32A(1) of the Act of 1969 relates (not being an order under section 32A(2)) the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem of the relevant infant for the purposes of the proceedings if it appears to the court that it is in his interests to do so. 2 An appointment of a guardian ad litem under this rule or section 32B(1) of the Act of 1969 shall be made by order and the person to be appointed shall be selected from a panel established by regulations under section 103 of the Children Act 1975 except that the person appointed shall not— a be a member, officer or servant of a local authority or authorised person (within the meaning of section 1 of the Act of 1969) which is a party to the proceedings; or b be, or at any time have been, a member, officer or servant of a local authority or voluntary organisation (within the meaning of section 87(1) of the Act of 1980) who has been directly concerned in that capacity in arrangements relating to the care, accommodation or welfare of the relevant infant; or c be a serving probation officer (except that a probation officer who has not in that capacity been previously concerned with the relevant infant or his family and who is employed part-time may, when not engaged in his duties as a probation officer, act as a guardian ad litem ). 3 Where the court has appointed a guardian ad litem under this rule or section 32B(1) of the Act of 1969, and it appears to the court desirable that some other person should act as guardian ad litem in substitution for the person appointed earlier, the court shall, by order, revoke the earlier appointment and make a new appointment. 4 The powers of the court to appoint a guardian ad litem under this rule or section 32B(1) of the Act of 1969 and to give directions concerning legal representation of the infant in accordance with paragraph (6)(c) or concerning any other matter in accordance with paragraph (6)(e) shall also be exercisable, before the hearing of the application to which the proceedings relate, by a single justice or by the justices' clerk; and where the power to appoint a guardian ad litem is so exercised, the single justice or the justices' clerk shall on the same occasion consider whether the infant should be legally represented and may direct that the guardian ad litem so appointed is to instruct a solicitor to represent the infant. 5 The court shall cause notice of an order appointing a guardian ad litem to be given to the guardian ad litem , the applicant and the persons to whom notice of the proceedings has been given under rule 14(2). 6 The guardian ad litem appointed under this rule or section 32B(1) of the Act of 1969, with a view to safeguarding the interests of the relevant infant before the court shall— a so far as it is reasonably practicable, investigate all circumstances relevant to the proceedings and for that purpose shall interview such persons, inspect such records and obtain such professional assistance as the guardian ad litem thinks appropriate; b regard as the first and paramount consideration the need to safeguard and promote the infant’s best interests until he achieves adulthood, and shall take into account the wishes and feelings of the infant, having regard to his age and understanding, and shall ensure that those wishes and feelings are made known to the court; c except where a solicitor has been instructed to represent the infant before the appointment of the guardian ad litem or a direction has been given in accordance with paragraph (4) of this rule that a solicitor be instructed, obtain the views of the court as to whether the infant should be legally represented and, unless the court otherwise directs, instruct a solicitor to represent the infant; d consider how the case should be presented on behalf of the infant, acting in conjunction with the solicitor in a case in which one has been instructed (whether by the guardian ad litem or otherwise) to represent the infant; and shall, in such a case, instruct the solicitor (unless the solicitor considers, having taken into account the views of the guardian ad litem , that the infant wishes to give instructions which conflict with those of the guardian ad litem and that he is able, having regard to his age and understanding, to give such instructions on his own behalf); e seek the views of the court in any case where difficulties arise in relation to the performance of his duties; f as soon as practicable make a report in writing to the court for the purposes of rule 25(3)(a); g perform such other duties as the court may direct. 7 When the court has finally disposed of the case the guardian ad litem shall consider, acting in conjunction with the solicitor in a case in which the infant is legally represented, whether it would be in the infant’s best interests to appeal to the Crown Court and, if it is considered that it would be, he shall ensure that notice of appeal is given on behalf of the infant (unless the solicitor, in a case in which the infant is legally represented, considers, having taken into account the views of the guardian ad litem , that the infant wishes to give instructions which conflict with those of the guardian ad litem and that he is able, having regard to his age and understanding, to give such instructions on his own behalf). Applications by grandparents to be parties to proceedings. 17 1 Where in any such proceedings as are mentioned in section 32A(1) of the Act of 1969 a grandparent of the relevant infant makes an application under section 32C of that Act, the circumstances in which the court may give leave for that grandparent to be made a party to the proceedings are those in which the court is satisfied that— a the grandparent, before the commencement of the proceedings, had a substantial involvement in the infant’s upbringing at any time during the infant’s lifetime; and b making the grandparent a party to the proceedings is likely to be in the interests of the welfare of the relevant infant. 2 The power of the court to give leave for a grandparent to be made a party to the proceedings shall also be exercisable before the hearing of the proceedings, and shall be so exercisable also by the justices' clerk. Rights of parents and guardians. 18 Without prejudice to the provisions of section 32A(4A) of the Act of 1969 or to any other provision of these Rules which provides for a parent or guardian to take part in proceedings, the relevant infant’s parent or guardian shall be entitled: a to meet any allegations made against him in the course of the proceedings by cross-examining any witness and calling or giving evidence (and shall call or give evidence at the conclusion of the evidence for the respondent and the evidence, if any, for the applicant in rebuttal but before either the respondent or the applicant addresses the court under rule 14(4) or (5) of the Magistrates' Courts Rules 1981 as applied by rule 20(3) of these Rules); and b to make representations to the court, and shall do so at any such stage after the conclusion of the evidence in the hearing as the court considers appropriate. Rights of other persons. 19 1 Without prejudice to any other provision of these Rules which provides for a parent, guardian or grandparent to take part in proceedings, any person to whom this paragraph applies shall be entitled to make representations to the court, and shall do so at any such stage after the conclusion of the evidence in the hearing as the court considers appropriate. 2 The preceding paragraph applies to: a any person who is required to be given notice of the proceedings by virtue of rule 14(3)(d) of these Rules; and b any other person who is not a party to the proceedings and who satisfies the court that both of the criteria specified in the next following paragraph are met. 3 The criteria mentioned in the preceding paragraph are— a that the person in question has demonstrated an interest in the infant’s welfare which has been maintained until the commencement of the proceedings; b that the representations of that person are likely to be of relevance to the proceedings and to the welfare of the relevant infant. Adjournment of proceedings and procedure at hearing. 20 1 The court may, at any time, whether before or after the beginning of the hearing, adjourn the hearing, and, when so doing, may either fix the date, time and place at which the hearing is to be resumed or, unless it makes an interim order in respect of the relevant infant in pursuance of section 2(10) or 16(4) of the Act of 1969 or section 21A(4) of the Act of 1980, leave the date, time and place to be determined later by the court; but the hearing shall not be resumed at that date, time and place unless the court is satisfied that the applicant, the respondent, any other party to the proceedings and any person to whom rule 19(1) applies have had adequate notice thereof. 2 Subject to the provisions of the Act of 1969, sections 56, 57 and 123 of the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 (non-appearance of parties and defects in process) shall apply to the proceedings as if they were by way of complaint and as if any references therein to the complainant, to the defendant and to the defence were, respectively, references to the applicant, to the respondent or any other party to the proceedings and to his case. 3 Subject to the provisions of the next following paragraph, rules 14 and 16(1) of the Magistrates' Courts Rules 1981 (order of evidence and speeches and form of order) shall apply to the proceedings as if they were by way of complaint and as if any references therein to the complainant, to the defendant and to the defence were, respectively, references to the applicant, to the respondent and to his case. 4 In any case in which there is any party other than the applicant and the respondent, by virtue of an order made under section 32A or 32C of the Act of 1969, the relevant infant shall be entitled to cross-examine witnesses and to address the court after any parent or grandparent, and any parent shall cross-examine witnesses or address the court after any grandparent, except that the court may permit cross-examination or hear the parties in a different order, which it shall state at the beginning of the hearing, if, after hearing any representations of the parties as to the order in which the hearing should proceed, it appears to it that to do so would better serve the interests of justice in the circumstances of the case. 5 Where the proceedings are brought under section 1 of the Act of 1969 and it is alleged that the offence condition is satisfied then, in relation to any written statement tendered in evidence under section 9 of the Criminal Justice Act 1967 to substantiate or refute that allegation, rule 70 of the Magistrates' Courts Rules 1981 shall apply as if any references therein to the prosecutor and to the accused were, respectively, references to the applicant and to the relevant infant. Duty of court to explain nature of proceedings; evidence and order of speeches. 21 1 Except where the relevant infant is the applicant or where, by virtue of any enactment, the court may proceed in his absence, before proceeding with the hearing the court shall inform him of the general nature both of the proceedings and of the grounds on which they are brought, in terms suitable to his age and understanding, or if by reason of his age and understanding or his absence it is impracticable so to do, shall so inform any parent or guardian of his present at the hearing. 2 Where the proceedings are brought under section 1 of the Act of 1969 and it is alleged that the offence condition is satisfied, then, unless the case falls to be remitted to another court in pursuance of section 2(11) of the Act of 1969 and it does not appear to the court appropriate to determine under section 3(5) of that Act whether the offence condition is satisfied before remitting the case— a the court shall explain to the relevant infant the substance of the alleged offence in simple language suitable to his age and understanding and ask him whether or not he admits to being guilty of that offence and, before considering any other matter relevant to the proceedings, shall consider and determine whether or not the offence condition is satisfied; b in relation to the proceedings by way of such consideration rules 8 and 9 shall apply subject to any necessary modifications and, in particular, as if any reference therein to the charge were a reference to the allegation; c in relation to proceedings by way of such consideration rules 20(2), 23(2) and 24 of these Rules shall not apply but rule 13 of the Magistrates' Courts Rules 1981 (order of evidence and speeches) shall apply to the proceedings as if they were criminal proceedings to which that rule applies and as if any references therein to the accused, to the defence, to the prosecutor and to the prosecution were, respectively, references to the relevant infant, to his case, to the applicant and to his case, and d on determining whether or not the offence condition is satisfied, the court shall inform the relevant infant of their finding. 3 Where a guardian ad litem has been appointed, he shall be given an opportunity, if he is able to give evidence relevant to the applicant’s case (whether or not he has already been called as a witness), to give such evidence at the conclusion of the evidence for the applicant and respondent, but before any evidence or representations are heard in accordance with rule 18 or 19 of these Rules. Conduct of case on behalf of relevant infant. 22 1 Except where— a the relevant infant or his parent or guardian is legally represented, or b the proceedings are brought under section 1 of the Act of 1969 in pursuance of a request made by his parent or guardian for the purposes of section 3(1) of the Act of 1963 or in pursuance of an order thereunder, or c the court has under section 32A of the Act of 1969 ordered that in relation to the proceedings his parent or guardian is not to be treated as representing the relevant infant or as otherwise authorised to act on his behalf, the court shall, unless the relevant infant otherwise requests, allow his parent or guardian to conduct the case on his behalf, subject however to the provisions of rule 23(2). 2 If the court thinks it appropriate to do so it may, unless the relevant infant otherwise requests or a guardian ad litem has been appointed, allow a relative of his or some other responsible person to conduct the case on his behalf. Power of court to hear evidence in absence of relevant infant and to require parent or guardian to withdraw. 23 1 Where, in the case of proceedings under section 1 of the Act of 1969, the ground on which the proceedings are brought or, in the case of any proceedings, the evidence likely to be given, is such that in the opinion of the court it is in the interests of the relevant infant that the whole, or any part, of the evidence should not be given in his presence, then, unless the relevant infant is conducting his own case, the court may hear the whole or part of the evidence, as it thinks appropriate, in his absence: Provided that evidence relating to the character or conduct of the relevant infant (including, in the case of proceedings under section 1 of the Act of 1969, evidence that the offence condition is satisfied) shall be heard in his presence. 2 Subject to rule 21(2)(c), if the court is satisfied that in the special circumstances it is appropriate so to do, it may require a parent, guardian or grandparent of the relevant infant or any other person entitled to make representations by virtue of rule 19 to withdraw from the court while the relevant infant gives evidence or makes a statement: Provided that the court shall inform the person so excluded of the substance of any allegations made against him by the relevant infant. Duty of court to explain procedure to relevant infant at end of applicant’s case. 24 Subject to rule 21(2)(c), if it appears to the court after hearing the evidence in support of the applicant’s case that he has made out a prima facie case it shall tell the relevant infant or the person conducting the case on his behalf under rule 22 that he may give evidence or make a statement and call witnesses. Consideration of reports. 25 1 The court shall arrange for copies of any written report of a guardian ad litem, probation officer, local authority, local education authority, educational establishment or registered medical practitioner before the court to be made available, so far as practicable before the hearing, to: a the applicant; b the appropriate local authority, where it is not the applicant; c the legal representative, if any, of the relevant infant; d the parent or guardian of the relevant infant (whether or not he is a party to the proceedings by virtue of an order under section 32A of the Act of 1969); e the guardian ad litem of the relevant infant; f the relevant infant, except where the court otherwise directs on the ground that it appears to it impracticable to disclose the report having regard to the age and understanding of the infant or undesirable to do so having regard to serious harm which might thereby be suffered by him; and g any other person who is a party to the proceedings. 2 Copies of any such report may, if the court considers it desirable to do so, be shown to any person who is required to be given notice of the proceedings in pursuance of rule 14(3)(d) of these Rules and to any other person who is entitled to make representations to the court by virtue of rule 19(1) of these Rules. 3 Where the court is satisfied that the applicant’s case has been proved— a where a guardian ad litem has been appointed, the court shall take into consideration his written report to the court; and the guardian ad litem shall in addition be entitled to make oral representations to the court; b the court shall take into consideration such information as to the relevant infant’s general conduct, home surroundings, school record and medical history as may be necessary to enable it to deal with the case in his best interests and, in particular, shall take into consideration such information as aforesaid which is provided in pursuance of section 9 of the Act of 1969; c if such information as aforesaid is not fully available, the court shall consider the desirability of adjourning the case for such inquiry as may be necessary; d any written report of a guardian ad litem, probation officer, local authority, local education authority, educational establishment or registered medical practitioner may be received and considered by the court without being read aloud; and e if the court considers it necessary in the interests of the relevant infant, it may require him or his parent or guardian, if present, to withdraw from the court. 4 In any case in which the relevant infant is not legally represented and where a report which has not been made available to him in accordance with a direction under paragraph (1)(f) has been considered without being read aloud in pursuance of paragraph (3)(d) or where the relevant infant, his parent or guardian has been required to withdraw from the court in pursuance of paragraph (3)(e), then— a the relevant infant shall be told the substance of any part of the information given to the court bearing on his character or conduct which the court considers to be material to the manner in which the case should be dealt with unless it appears to it impracticable so to do having regard to his age and understanding, and b the relevant infant’s parent or guardian, if present, shall be told the substance of any part of such information which the court considers to be material as aforesaid and which has reference to his character or conduct or to the character, conduct, home surroundings or health of the relevant infant; and, if such a person, having been told the substance of any part of such information desires to produce further evidence with reference thereto, the court, if it thinks the further evidence would be material, shall adjourn the proceedings for the production thereof and shall, if necessary in the case of a report, require the attendance at the adjourned hearing of the person who made the report. Consideration of reports: secure accommodation proceedings. 26 1 This rule applies only in connection with proceedings brought under regulations made under sections 21A and 39 of the Act of 1980. 2 The court shall arrange for copies of any written report before the court to be made available, so far as practicable before the hearing, to: a the applicant; b the legal representative, if any, of the relevant infant; c the parent or guardian of the relevant infant; d the relevant infant, except where the court otherwise directs on the ground that it appears to it impracticable to disclose the report having regard to the age and understanding of the infant or undesirable to do so having regard to serious harm which might thereby be suffered by him; and copies of such a report may, if the court considers it desirable to do so, be shown to any person who is required to be given notice of the proceedings in pursuance of rule 14(3)(d) of these Rules. 3 In any case in which the court has determined that the relevant criteria are satisfied, the court shall, for the purpose of determining the maximum period of authorisation to be specified in the order, take into consideration such information as it considers necessary for that purpose, including such information which is provided in pursuance of section 9 of the Act of 1969. 4 Any written report may be received and considered by the court without being read aloud. Duty of court to explain manner in which it proposes to deal with case and effect of order. 27 1 Before finally disposing of the case or before remitting the case to another court in pursuance of section 2(11) of the Act of 1969, the court shall in simple language inform the relevant infant, any person conducting the case on his behalf, and his parent or guardian, if present, of the manner in which it proposes to deal with the case and allow any of those persons so informed to make representations: Provided that the relevant infant shall not be informed as aforesaid if the court considers it undesirable or, having regard to his age and understanding, impracticable so to inform him. 2 On making any order, the court shall in simple language suitable to his age and understanding explain to the relevant infant the general nature and effect of the order unless it appears to it impracticable so to do having regard to his age and understanding or, in the case of an order requiring his parent or guardian to enter into a recognizance, it appears to it undesirable so to do; and shall in any case give such an explanation to the relevant infant’s parent or guardian, if present. Leave of court for withdrawal of discharge applications. 28 In any case in which the power to apply under section 21(2) of the Act of 1969 for the discharge of a care order has been exercised on behalf of the relevant infant by his parent or guardian, that application may be withdrawn otherwise than by that parent or guardian only with the leave of the court; and the court shall not grant such leave unless, after considering the grounds for the application for withdrawal and after hearing any representations which that parent or guardian may wish to make and any evidence which he may wish to adduce, it considers that it would be inappropriate for it to discharge the order. PART IV PROCEEDINGS IN RELATION TO ACCESS TO CHILDREN IN CARE AND RESOLUTIONS CONCERNING PARENTAL RIGHTS AND DUTIES Application and interpretation of Part IV. 29 1 This Part shall apply in connection with proceedings in a court under Part 1A of the Act of 1980 (access to children in care) and under section 3(6) or 5(4) of that Act (objection to resolution vesting parental rights and duties in a local authority or voluntary organisation), except that rule 33 shall apply only in connection with proceedings under the said section 3(6) or 5(4). 2 In this Part of the Rules the expressions “child”, “guardian” (except where it is used in the expression “guardian ad litem ”), “local authority” and “voluntary organisation” have the meanings assigned to them by section 87(1) of the said Act; the expression “parent” has the meaning assigned to it by section 87(1) of the said Act, except that in proceedings under section 3(6) or 5(4) of the said Act it includes a person having custody of a child by an order of a court where section 8(2) of the said Act applies; and the expression “custodian” means a person in whom legal custody of a child is vested by an order under section 33 of the Children Act 1975 . Notice of complaint. 30 1 A local authority or voluntary organisation which is a party to any proceedings in a court to which this Part of the Rules applies shall send a notice specifying the time and place fixed for the hearing of the complaint to any other person who is a parent of the child to whom the proceedings relate and who lives apart from the parent who is the complainant or defendant (unless a summons is issued for the purpose of securing his attendance thereat) or who is a foster parent or other person with whom the child has had his home for a period of, or periods amounting in total to, not less than 42 days, ending not more than six months before the date of the complaint, if the whereabouts of such a person is known to the local authority or voluntary organisation; and a parent who is the complainant in any such proceedings shall send a notice specifying the time and place fixed for the hearing of the complaint to any other parent of the child who lives apart from him if the whereabouts of such other parent is known to him. 2 A local authority which is a party to proceedings in a court under Part 1A of the Act of 1980 shall send a notice specifying the time and place fixed for the hearing of the complaint to any person other than the complainant (and other than a person to whom a notice is required to be sent under paragraph (1)) who is a parent, guardian or custodian of the child, if his whereabouts is known to the local authority. 3 If a parent, guardian or custodian of the child who is required to be given notice in accordance with paragraph (1) or (2) appears at the hearing he shall be entitled to meet any allegations made against him in the course of the proceedings by cross-examining any witness and calling or giving evidence; and any person who is required to be given such a notice shall be entitled to make representations to the court at the conclusion of the evidence for the complainant (including any evidence in rebuttal of evidence for the defence) and the evidence, if any, for the defence but before any address by the defendant or complainant under rule 14(4) or (5) of the Magistrates' Courts Rules 1981 . Appointment and duties of guardian ad litem . 31 1 In any proceedings under section 3(6) or 5(4) of the Act of 1980 in which the court makes the child a party to the proceedings, the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem of the child for the purposes of the proceedings unless the court is satisfied that to do so is not necessary for safeguarding the interests of the child. 2 An appointment of a guardian ad litem under section 7 or 12F(3) of the Act of 1980 shall be made by order and the person to be appointed shall be selected from a panel established by regulations under section 103 of the Children Act 1975 except that the person appointed shall not— a be a member, officer or servant of a local authority or voluntary organisation which is a party to the proceedings; or b be, or at any time have been, a member, officer or servant of a local authority or voluntary organisation who has been directly concerned in that capacity in arrangements relating to the care, accommodation or welfare of the child; or c be a serving probation officer (except that a probation officer who has not in that capacity been previously concerned with the child or his family and who is employed part-time may, when not engaged in his duties as a probation officer, act as a guardian ad litem ). 3 Where the court has appointed a guardian ad litem under the said section 7 or 12F(3) and it appears to the court desirable that some other person should act as guardian ad litem in substitution for the person appointed earlier the court shall, by order, revoke the earlier appointment and make a new appointment. 4 The powers of the court to appoint a guardian ad litem under the said section 7 or 12F(3) and to give directions concerning legal representation of the child in accordance with paragraph (6)(c) or concerning any other matter in accordance with paragraph (6)(e) shall also be exercisable, before the hearing of the complaint, by a single justice or by the justices' clerk; and where the power to appoint a guardian ad litem is so exercised, the single justice or the justices' clerk shall on the same occasion consider whether the child should be legally represented and may direct that the guardian ad litem so appointed is to instruct a solicitor to represent the child. 5 The court shall cause notice of an order appointing a guardian ad litem to be given to the guardian ad litem , the complainant, the defendant, the child to whom the proceedings relate and any other person to whom notice of the hearing has been given under rule 30(1). 6 The guardian ad litem appointed under the said section 7 or 12F(3) with a view to safeguarding the interests of the child before the court shall— a so far as it is reasonably practicable, investigate all circumstances relevant to the proceedings and for that purpose shall interview such persons, inspect such records and obtain such professional assistance as the guardian ad litem thinks appropriate; b regard as the first and paramount consideration the need to safeguard and promote the child’s best interests until he achieves adulthood, and shall take into account the wishes and feelings of the child, having regard to his age and understanding, and shall ensure that those wishes and feelings are made known to the court; c except where a solicitor has been instructed to represent the child before the appointment of the guardian ad litem or a direction has been given in accordance with paragraph (4) that a solicitor be instructed, obtain the views of the court as to whether the child should be legally represented and, unless the court otherwise directs, instruct a solicitor to represent the child; d consider how the case should be presented on behalf of the child, acting in conjunction with the solicitor in a case in which one has been instructed (whether by the guardian ad litem or otherwise) to represent the child; and shall, in such a case, instruct the solicitor (unless the solicitor considers, having taken into account the views of the guardian ad litem, that the child wishes to give instructions which conflict with those of the guardian ad litem and that he is able, having regard to his age and understanding, to give instructions on his own behalf); e seek the views of the court in any case where difficulties arise in relation to the performance of his duties; f as soon as practicable make a report in writing to the court; g perform such other duties as the court may direct. 7 When the court has concluded the hearing of the complaint the guardian ad litem shall consider, acting in conjunction with the solicitor in a case in which the child is legally represented, whether it would be in the child’s best interests to appeal to the High Court and, if he considers that it would be, he shall ensure that notice of appeal is given on behalf of the child (unless the solicitor, in a case in which the child is legally represented, considers, having taken into account the views of the guardian ad litem, that the child wishes to give instructions which conflict with those of the guardian ad litem and that he is able, having regard to his age and understanding, to give such instructions on his own behalf). Evidence of guardian ad litem . 32 Where a guardian ad litem has been appointed, the court shall take into consideration his written report to the court; and the guardian ad litem shall in addition (whether or not he has already been called as a witness) be given an opportunity to give oral evidence at the conclusion of the evidence, if any, for the child and to make oral representations to the court. Rights of persons other than parties. 33 1 Without prejudice to any other provision of these Rules which provides for a parent or other person to take part in proceedings, any person to whom this paragraph applies shall be entitled, in any proceedings under section 3(6) or 5(4) of the Act of 1980, to make representations to the court, and shall do so at such stage after the conclusion of the evidence in the hearing as the court considers appropriate. 2 The preceding paragraph applies to: a any person who is required to be given notice of the proceedings by virtue of rule 30(1); and b any other person who is not a party to the proceedings and who satisfies the court that both of the criteria specified in the next following paragraph are met. 3 The criteria mentioned in the preceding paragraph are— a that the person in question has demonstrated an interest in the welfare of the child to whom the proceedings relate which has been maintained until the commencement of the proceedings; and b that the representations of that person are likely to be of relevance to the proceedings and to the welfare of the child in question. Evidence and procedure generally. 34 1 The court shall arrange for copies of any written report, including any such report of a guardian ad litem or local authority, before the court to be made available, so far as practicable before the hearing, to: a any parent, guardian or custodian of the child to whom the proceedings relate who is a party to the proceedings; b the legal representative, if any, of the child; c the child to whom the proceedings relate, except where the court otherwise directs on the ground that it appears to it impracticable to disclose the report having regard to the age and understanding of the child or undesirable to do so having regard to serious harm which might thereby be suffered by him; d the guardian ad litem of the child; and e the local authority. 2 Copies of any such report may, if the court considers it desirable to do so, be shown to any person who is required to be given notice of the proceedings in pursuance of rule 30(1) or (2). 3 Any written report may be received and considered by the court without being read aloud. 4 Where, in pursuance of the preceding paragraph, a report has been considered without it being read aloud, then the child shall, if he is not legally represented and a copy of the report has not been made available to him, be told the substance of any part of the information given to the court bearing on his character or conduct unless it appears to the court impracticable so to do having regard to his understanding, and if, having been told the substance of any part of such information, he desires to produce further evidence with reference thereto, the court, if it thinks the further evidence would be material, shall adjourn the proceedings for the production thereof. Power of the court to hear evidence in absence of child, etc. 35 1 Where the court has made the child a party to the proceedings and he is present at the hearing and the evidence likely to be given is such that in the opinion of the court it is in the interests of the child that the whole, or any part, of the evidence should not be given in his presence then, unless the child is conducting his own case, the court may hear the whole or part of the evidence, as it thinks appropriate in his absence: Provided that evidence relating to the character or conduct of the child shall be heard in his presence. 2 If the court is satisfied that in the special circumstances it is appropriate so to do, it may require a parent, guardian or custodian of the child to withdraw from the court while the child gives evidence or makes a statement: Provided that the court shall inform the person so excluded of the substance of any allegations made against him by the child. PART V PROCEEDINGS UNDER SECTION 3 OF THE CHILDREN ANDYOUNG PERSONS ACT 1963 Notice of complaint and restrictions on adjudicating justice. 36 1 A parent or guardian who applies by complaint to a juvenile court under section 3 of the Act of 1963 after the failure or refusal of the local authority to bring a person before the court, shall send a notice specifying the time and place fixed for the hearing of the complaint to any other person who, being a parent of that child or young person, lives apart from the applicant and if any such person appears at the hearing he shall be entitled to be heard. 2 A justice who sits as a member of a juvenile court which hears such a complaint as aforesaid shall not sit as a member of the court before which that child or young person appears or is brought as a result of an order directed to the local authority in respect of him under the said section 3. PART VI REGISTER Register of proceedings in juvenile court. 37 Such part of the register kept in pursuance of rules made under the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 as relates to proceedings in a juvenile court shall be kept in a separate book. PART VII MISCELLANEOUS Service of contribution orders etc. 38 A contribution order, an order attaching an affiliation order or an arrears order made on a parent or other person liable to make contributions in respect of, or to maintain, a child or young person, may be served by any constable or officer of a local authority by delivering a copy of the order to the person on whom it is made, or by leaving the same at the person’s last known or usual place of abode with some other person for him, or by sending the same by registered post or by recorded delivery service to him at his last known or usual place of abode. Notice of order made under section 49 of the Child Care Act 1980. 39 Where an order is made under section 49(1) of the Act of 1980 in respect of an affiliation order, payments under which have been ordered to be made to a collecting officer, notice of the making of the order shall be given by the clerk of the court to the collecting officer, either personally or by written notice sent or delivered to his address by post or otherwise. Issue of summons or warrant to enforce attendance of parent or guardian. 40 Where a child or young person is charged with an offence, or is for any other reason brought before a court, a summons or warrant may be issued by a court to enforce the attendance of a parent or guardian under section 34 of the Act of 1933, in the same manner as if an information were laid upon which a summons or warrant could be issued against a defendant under the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 and a summons to the child or young person may include a summons to the parent or guardian to enforce his attendance for the said purpose. Payment of money by person subject to attendance centre order. 41 1 Where a person under the age of seventeen is ordered, under section 17 of the Criminal Justice Act 1982 , to attend at an attendance centre in default of payment of a sum of money, payment may thereafter be made— a of the whole of the said sum, to the clerk of the court which made the order; or b of the whole or, subject to paragraph (2), any part of the said sum, to the officer in charge of the attendance centre specified in the order. 2 The officer mentioned in paragraph (1)(b) shall not be required to accept a payment of part of the said sum unless it is an amount required to secure a reduction of one complete hour, or some multiple thereof, in the period of attendance specified in the order. 3 The clerk of the court shall, on receiving a payment under paragraph (1), forthwith notify the officer mentioned in paragraph (1)(b). 4 The officer mentioned in paragraph (1)(b) shall pay any money received by him under that paragraph to the clerk of the court which made the order and shall note the receipt of the money in the register kept at the attendance centre. Form of warrant where young person is committed to remand centre or prison. 42 Where a young person is committed to a remand centre under section 22(5) or section 23(2) of the Act of 1969 or is committed to a prison under the said section 23(2), the court shall include in the order of committal a certificate that the young person is of so unruly a character that he cannot safely be committed to the care of a local authority. Forms. 43 1 The forms in Schedule 2, or forms to the like effect, may be used with such variation as the circumstances may require, and may be so used in lieu of forms contained in the Schedule to the Magistrates' Courts (Forms) Rules 1981 . 2 For the purpose of facilitating the performance by supervisors of their functions under section 14 of the Act of 1969 of advising, assisting and befriending persons subject to supervision orders the following additional requirements to be complied with by the person subject to the order are prescribed for the purpose of inclusion (if the court considers it appropriate) in supervision orders, that is to say— a in the case of a supervision order made under section 7(7) of the Act of 1969 or a supervision order made on the occasion of the discharge of a care order made under that subsection, either or both of the requirements set out in paragraph 3(a), and b in the case of any other supervision order, one or more of the requirements set out in paragraph (3)(a) and (b). 3 The requirements mentioned in paragraph (2) are— a “That he/she shall inform the supervisor at once of any change of his/her residence or employment”; “That he/she shall keep in touch with the supervisor in accordance with such instructions as may from time to time be given by the supervisor and, in particular, that he/she shall, if the supervisor so requires, receive visits from the supervisor at his/her home”; and b “That he/she shall be medically examined in accordance with arrangements made by the supervisor.”. Mackay of Clashfern, C. 23rd May 1988