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What are Cautions ?
'A simple caution' is not a criminal conviction, but it will be recorded on the police database. It may be used in court as evidence of bad character, or as part of an anti-social behaviour order (ASBO) application. The record will remain on the police database along with photographs, fingerprints and any other evidence taken.
'A conditional caution' differs from a simple caution in that you must comply with certain conditions to receive the caution and to avoid prosecution for the offence you've committed.
Just like a simple caution, a conditional caution is not a criminal conviction. But it will be recorded on the police database and may be considered in court if you are tried for another offence. The record will remain on the police database along with photographs, fingerprints and any other samples taken at the time.
Do young offenders receive cautions?
No. Young offenders (aged 17 and under) are given 'reprimands' and 'final warnings' instead of simple cautions. This is to try and keep them out of the court system.
What are reprimands and final warnings?
Anybody between the ages of 10 and 18 years can receive a reprimand and/or final warning. A reprimand is issued for a minor first offence. A final warning is issued by the police for a second offence, no matter how minor. It is also possible to get a final warning if the first offence is too serious for a reprimand.
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