11 - 16s glossary

Caution
1. A formal warning given by the police. It is given instead of a charge, which would involve a court case.

2. The words the police officer must use before interviewing a suspect.

Chairman of the Court
The magistrate in overall charge of a magistrate’s court.

Charge
Formally accuse a person of committing a crime. The police charge a person when there is enough evidence that links them to the crime.

Children Act
This Act ensures that children’s welfare is always considered when parents separate or divorce and their best interests are kept in mind.

Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass)
A service which safeguards and promotes the welfare of children involved in family court proceedings.

Children and family reporter
A specially trained person who works with families to help them agree on arrangements for their children when a marriage or relationship breaks down.