In Their Defence

Aika is a force of nature. She has worked relentlessly with young people who have faced the worst abuses in society, while using the weapon of the law to fight their corner. We should all listen to what she has to say if we care about the UK. – Martha Lane Fox‘This should be required reading for government ministers, civil servants and all policy advisers on youth justice. Justice should not only depend upon the dedication of individuals and charities. The best interests of the child and the best interests of society require a youth justice system fit for purpose. – Professor Emerita Geraldine Van Bueren KCAward-winning legal expert Aika Stephenson’s book shines a spotlight on the treatment of many children and young people caught up in the UK’s criminal justice system and provides a rallying call for systemic change that will benefit them all so they can thrive. – Grant Gordon OBE, Chair Ethos FoundationAn authoritative, important and timely book about our broken youth justice system. Essential reading for everyone concerned about creating a fairer world for young people in trouble with the law. – Mike Dickson, author of Our Generous Gene‘In a shocking indictment of our lack of justice, this timely book tells you why no child is immune from arrest or conviction and what needs to change, now. A vitally important call to action.’ – Yvonne Roberts, journalist, writer and broadcaster

Aika Stephenson co-founded Just for Kids Law – a charity dedicated to providing legal representation and advice to young people as well as fighting for reform on a wider level – in 2006. She is a solicitor and youth justice expert with years of experience representing young people in criminal proceedings and particularly those with special educational needs. She heads up the charity’s criminal arm and has won numerous awards for her work, including the prestigious Criminal Defence Lawyer of the Year at the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards, 2018.