NCTJ Court Reporting Practice Exam

At what age does Section 49 anonymity end for a juvenile?

1. Once the juvenile turns 16

2. Once the juvenile turns 18

3. Once the juvenile completes high school

4. Once the juvenile is sentenced

The correct answer is: Once the juvenile turns 18

Section 49 of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999 provides for anonymity in the case of juveniles involved in criminal proceedings. This anonymity is in place to protect the privacy and future of those under the age of 18, who are deemed to be children in the eyes of the law. The correct answer, which indicates that anonymity ends once the juvenile turns 18, aligns with the legal framework designed to safeguard minors. This age threshold is significant because it marks the transition from minor to adult status in legal terms. After reaching the age of 18, individuals are no longer afforded the same protections concerning their identity and can be named in connection with criminal cases. The other options do not accurately reflect the legal stipulations. For example, becoming 16 or completing high school does not automatically revoke anonymity. Similarly, being sentenced does not directly relate to the age of anonymity termination. The focus of Section 49 is strictly on age, confirming that individuals retain their protection until they reach adulthood at 18.