Nine To Noon The youth court is leading the way for neurodiverse people
Oct 30, 2025
Mark Hennahan, a law professor at the University of Auckland specializing in youth justice and neuroscience, discusses the critical role of youth courts for neurodiverse individuals. He highlights how these courts can help divert young people from deeper criminal pathways and recalls a troubling case of wrongful imprisonment linked to fetal alcohol syndrome. Hennahan emphasizes the necessity for courts to adapt their communication, better recognize neurodiverse needs, and implement support systems instead of solely punitive measures.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Youth Court As Early Intervention
- The youth court sits early in offenders' journeys and can prevent deeper criminal pathways by addressing causes rather than just punishment.
- Judges like Andrew Beacroft and others have led a compassionate, cause-focused approach that influences broader courts.
Tainapura's Wrongful Conviction
- Mark Hennahan recounts Tainapura's wrongful conviction tied to fetal alcohol syndrome and a coerced confession.
- Tainapura served 21 years before the Privy Council recognised the wrongful conviction.
Understanding Is Required For A Fair Trial
- Many neurodivergent defendants don't understand court processes or consequences, risking unfair trials and wrongful convictions.
- The Chief Justice and specialists warn the system lacks capacity to identify and explain these impairments.
