Calls to raise age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 14 in England and Wales

The Bar Council is advocating for raising the age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 14 in England and Wales, arguing that children under 14 lack the cognitive and emotional maturity to fully understand the consequences of their actions. This move aims to better align the legal system with modern psychological understanding of child development, potentially reducing recidivism rates among young offenders. The call comes amid broader discussions about youth justice reform, highlighting the need for more rehabilitative approaches than punitive measures for young people.