11 - 16s glossary

Social worker
Someone who helps people to live more successfully within their local communities by helping them find solutions to their problems through advising, counselling and listening.

Solicitor
A qualified lawyer who brings the client to the barrister, collects the evidence, and works with the barrister to prepare the case. Sometimes solicitors can present cases in court (instead of a barrister). They are called solicitor advocates. See barrister for more information on the role of the solicitor advocate.

This type of solicitor is different from a duty solicitor, who represents the accused during police interviews. See duty solicitor.

Statute law
Laws created by Acts of Parliament.

Substance misuse
Taking of substances such as drugs or alcohol. This can lead to addiction and behavioural disorder, and can cause harm to the health of the individual(s) concerned.

Surety
A person’s agreement to be liable for another’s default or non-attendance at court. The surety is often secured through a promise to pay an agreed amount of money.