Young people are often unaware of their legal rights, and can feel powerless to enforce them. They therefore can be vulnerable to having their legal rights neglected or abused. Additionally, the legal system is complicated and often confusing to navigate.
Workers have a responsibility to ensure young people’s legal rights are respected and protected. Although workers may not have specific legal expertise, workers still have the responsibility to inform and empower young people, and can do this by educating them about their rights and assisting them to exercise these rights when appropriate.
This section contains:
The following list is intended to be a general guide only. If you or a young person have questions it’s important to get advice about the particular situation.
Any age:
10 years old:
14 years old:
15 years old:
16 years old:
17 years old:
18 years old:
The information is taken from ‘When Can I’, a legal information handbook for young people, most recently published by Legal Aid Office ACT in 2009. To obtain copies contact Legal Aid ACT.
Phone: (02) 6243 3419