Rights of Juveniles in Criminal Proceedings
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions.
UAE Federal Law
What is this right?
Children and young people have special protections in the UAE criminal justice system:
- Age of criminal responsibility: Children under 12 years old cannot be held criminally responsible. For children aged 12-18, special juvenile rules apply.
- Separate proceedings: Juveniles are tried in specialised juvenile courts, not regular criminal courts.
- No imprisonment for young children: Juveniles under 16 cannot be sentenced to adult prison — they receive rehabilitation-focused measures instead.
- Parental presence: A parent, guardian, or social worker must be present during questioning of a juvenile.
- Privacy: Juvenile proceedings are closed to the public to protect the child's identity and future.
- Rehabilitation focus: The system emphasises education and reform over punishment for juvenile offenders.
When does it apply?
- The accused person is under 18 years old at the time of the alleged offence.
- These protections apply to all children in the UAE, regardless of nationality.
- Wadeema's Law provides additional protections against child abuse and exploitation.
What should you do?
- If your child is questioned by police, insist on being present during all interactions.
- Get a lawyer immediately — juveniles have the same right to legal representation as adults.
- Request that the case be handled by the juvenile court system if it has not been already.
- Ask about diversion programs or rehabilitation options instead of formal prosecution.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not allow a juvenile to be questioned alone — a parent, guardian, or social worker must be present.
- Do not let the child sign any documents without a lawyer reviewing them first.
- Do not share the child's identity publicly — juvenile proceedings are confidential by law.
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