We are distraught . My 26 yr old Autistic Son has been charged with a criminal offence . We meet with Solicitor soon . Where can he and us parents get support from ? I don’t know where to turn ? It’s all a mess . This is after 3 years of waiting for a decision
It is very stressful. I feel anxious all the time.
Our son was assessed by two forensic psychiatrists, one for the defence, one for the prosecution, who came up with the same conclusions and everyone seemed to be happy with what they said. However in court it took the prosecution barrister less than five minutes to demolish it all. So make sure that what is written is based on at least some standardised tests and that whoever writes it is capable of defending it in court. Ours wasn’t.
Is your son being held on remand or did he get bail?
One step at a time, never look too far ahead. And have a treat every now and again.
Hi Velvet , thank you so much for your reply . I’m so sorry you are experiencing something similar . My son is 26 yrs old now . We have a Solicitor who apparently has had a number of Neurodiverse clients. We are currently awaiting for Psychiatric and Psychological reports to ascertain if he is fit to plead . My stress levels are through the roof !
I wonder if you still need help? We are going through a similar experience and like you are struggling. I would strongly advise you to use a solicitor and barrister who have experience of defending people who are neurodiverse. We couldn't find one in our area and although our legal team were good, they didn't really understand our son's issues and the way he thinks and behaves.
Thank you so much
Dear NAS79483
Thank you for sharing your experience and I am sorry to hear about you and your son’s situation.
I see Bunny has posted some great links to the NAS website. In addition to Bunny's suggestions, you could try searching the NAS Autism Services Directory for relevant support/wellbeing services in your local area that cater to autistic people and parents. The NAS website also has a mental health section containing useful links to information and advice about a range of mental health issues including stress: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/mental-health.
Here are some other support services you want to investigate:
We hope this is helpful to you.
All the best,
Good_Vibes365.
Thank you so much for your reply
Hi, I am not asking for legal advice, just some support of some kind on a personal stress level of it all .
Please accept my apologies - I had misunderstood the nature of your question.
You might find this free service helpful. In their own words:
"The Prisoners’ Families Helpline can support you if you have a family member who is in contact with the criminal justice system in England and Wales. We provide advice and information on all aspects of the justice system, from what happens when a loved one is arrested, to visiting a prison, to preparing for release.
Our team is made up of highly trained, skilled staff and volunteers with professional and personal experience of the criminal justice system. They can provide practical information, emotional support, and refer you to additional support should you need it.
This is a free, confidential service - you do not have to give your name if you do not want to, and any information you do give us is kept confidential. "
The National Prisoners’ Families Helpline
You might also find it helpful to register with the NAS's free service:
I'm so sorry to hear this. We have been in a similar position too. The best idea you can do is to ask this question to your solicitor since I'm guessing they know what your situation is. I'm sorry I can't be of any more help but maybe the solicitor can give you a bit more information on where to turn for support. Just hang in there, and keep fighting, that's all you can do right now.
We're not allowed to offer legal advice here, but the NAS offers guidance here, including links to further resources:
