Parish Hall Enquiries for Young People
Parish Hall Enquiries
What is a Parish Hall Enquiry?
A Parish Hall Enquiry is a meeting where the Centenier of the Parish decides if there is enough evidence to charge someone with an offence. If there is enough evidence, the Centenier will consider:
- whether it is in the public's interest to prosecute
- if the issue can be handled another way during the enquiry
- how to resolve the matter if it is handled in the enquiry
The Centenier can only deal with the offence if the person admits to it. If they don't admit to the offence, it has to be handled by the Court.
Making Amends for an Offence (Reparation)
Reparation means fixing or making up for the harm caused by the offence. The Centenier can take several actions, including:
- issuing a written warning (caution)
- offering advice
- deciding that no further action is necessary
Often, reparation involves writing a letter of apology or paying compensation to the victim. In some cases, the Centenier may delay the decision (a deferred decision) and set conditions like writing an apology or paying compensation. After this delay, they may give advice or issue a written warning.
For some offences, the Centenier can impose fines up to £100.
Parish Hall Enquiry for People Under 18
When a child under 18 is involved, a representative from the Jersey Probation & After-Care Service (JPACS) will usually be there, except for minor issues or some driving offences. The Centenier will talk to the young person to understand what happened, and an adult with parental responsibility must accompany that child.
When JPACS Gets Involved
JPACS will get involved if certain penalties are given, such as:
- voluntary supervision orders
- restorative justice
- being charged and bailed for a Court appearance
Voluntary Supervision Orders
The Centenier may place the young person under the supervision of the Probation Service or the Alcohol and Drug Service. If they successfully comple the program (usually after three months), the Centenier will give them a written warning instead of prosecuting them. However, if the reoffend or don't attend their appointments, the Centenier may decide to prosecute.
Restorative Justice
The Centenier may also require the young person to work with the Restorative Justice Officer to help repair the harm caused by the offence. Find more information on Restorative Justice.
Charge and Bail for a Court Appearance
If the Centenier decides to charge the young person, they can be bailed to appear in the Youth Court or the Magistrate's Court, depending on the situation.
All of these options (except for charging and bail) can only happen if the young person agrees.
For more information, you can refer to the Parish Hall Enquiry System report - The Conduct and Effectiveness of Parish Hall Enquiries Report.