NCJ Number
196686
Journal
Lay Panel Magazine Volume: 46 Dated: September 2001 Pages: 1-36
Editor(s)
W. G. McCarney
Date Published
September 2001
Length
36 pages
Annotation
Ten articles address issues of concern to the Northern Ireland Youth and Family Court Association.
Abstract
An editorial comments on the release and reintegration into society of the two boys who killed 2-year-old James Bulger in 1993. Released into the community after 8 years in prison, the authorities are attempting to keep the boys anonymous to prevent them from being harmed or killed by a public that is angry at them for their crime. The editorial comments on the implications of such a policy of anonymity and concealment of identity. Another article reports on the Annual General Meeting (April 28, 2001) of the Northern Ireland Youth and Family Courts Association. This is followed by an article that provides an overview of the legislation and case law concerning domestic violence and the seriousness with which courts view this issue in decisions regarding the best interests of a child. The next article examines court definitions of "significant harm" as a criterion for determining whether a child should be allowed to remain in a home where some type of abuse has occurred. An article then presents a summary of survey findings regarding the extent of juvenile solvent abuse in Northern Ireland. This is followed by an article that describes the Knock Contact Centre, which provides a neutral meeting place where children of separated families may enjoy contact with one or both parents, as well as other family members. An article argues for the creation of the post of Commissioner for Children in Northern Ireland as a mechanism for protecting children's rights. Remaining articles address the role of lay members in the Northern Ireland judicial system, an appointment timetable for lay panel members, and the proceedings of the World Conference Against Racism.