The children's reporter investigates the case (usually via information provided by the social work department) and will decide whether or not compulsory measures of supervision may be required.
In the same year, 27% of children and young people referred had a Reporter decision to arrange a Hearing.
[3] Any child generally under the age of 16, or under the age of 18 but still subject to a compulsory supervision order (CSO), who offends is referred to a hearing unless the area procurator fiscal decides that the seriousness of the case merits prosecution in either a sheriff court or the High Court of Justiciary.
Finally are the group of people where attendance is not compulsory, however would assist the proceedings by giving information to the panel and aid discussion.
For the hearing itself, a child may automatically be entitled to legal assistance when specific circumstances apply.
[4] Children's Legal Representatives are members of special panels maintained by SLAB, with all costs met by the Scottish Government.
However, if required, hearings have power to make a number of orders – these are: When making either a CSO or ICSO, the hearing could attach a number of measures which may range from attendance on a particular programme, conditions regulating contact with parents or other significant adults/family members, contact with a social worker, placement in foster care, residential accommodation or secure accommodation.
It followed a report in April 1964 of a committee set up by the Secretary of State for Scotland under the chairmanship of Lord Kilbrandon, a Senator of the College of Justice, to examine how young offenders were dealt with.