11 - 16s glossary

Degrading
Something is degrading when it is humiliating or embarrassing.

Detention and training order
A sentence given to 12 to 17-year-olds who have committed crimes that adults would go to prison for. The length of the sentence can be between four months and two years. The first half is spent in custody in special institutions for young people while the second half is spent in the community under the supervision of the Youth Offending Team (YOT).

Discreet
Trustworthy and cautious.

Distress
To be severely upset.

Drug rehabilitation centre
A place where offenders who have problems misusing drugs can get help and support.

Drunk and disorderly
Someone who gets drunk and makes a nuisance of themselves in public.

Duty solicitor
A solicitor who represents the accused during police interviews and ensures he or she is treated fairly.This type of solicitor is different from an instructing solicitor, who works with the barrister in court. See solicitor.