YouthLaw
YouthLaw @ Wyndham Legal Service Inc. provides free legal advice and assistance to children and young people age 25 and under. Advice is provided by appointment. The YouthLaw Prgoram means that our Lawyers have an extensive knowledge of specialist youth services, agencies and networks and aims to provide a holistic service for young people. If you are aged 25 years and under and require legal assistance, you can make an appointment for our YouthLaw Program.
Please call 9741 0198 if you are aged 25 years and under and require legal assistance.
History of YouthLaw @ Wyndham Legal Service Inc.
The Wyndham Legal Service Inc. catchment area has a very high population of young people. Situated in the outer western growth corridor of Melbourne, the community is among the fastest growing areas in Victoria.
There are a number of factors which contributed to the development of YouthLaw @ Wyndham Legal Service. This includes over representation of young people in the criminal justice system andinadequate recreation and support services for young people.
Previously YouthLaw was serviced by a dedicated YouthLaw Lawyer, Since September 2008 all Lawyers working at Wyndham Legal Service provide assistance in our YouthLaw program.
Principles of YouthLaw @ Wyndham Legal Service Inc.
It is generally acknowledged that the complex area of YouthLaw requires a youth specific approach. Specific laws, issues and ethics exist in relation to young people. There are greater barriers for young people in accessing traditional forms of legal services. A knowledge of specialist youth services, agencies and networks is required to provide a holistic service and a proactive approach is necessary to reach those young people most at risk.
YouthLaw seeks to further the aims of the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child. Often a legal problem, particularly an impending court appearance, is the manifestation of broader issues for a young person.
YouthLaw meets squarely its charter to provide legal assistance, but also plays a valuable role in supporting young people around other areas of difficulty in their life. Such issues often include problematic substance abuse, housing, family breakdown and mental health problems.
YouthLaw’s links with local and State-wide youth support services enable swift, smooth and appropriate referral to those agencies.
If you require further information please contact us on 9741 0198.
