Child Grooming

Grooming is a term used to describe a particular type of offence where an adult develops relationships with children, and cynically gains their trust to coax them into sexual activity. The sentence for child grooming can be a maximum of 10 years imprisonment.

Child Grooming FAQ

A: Developing relationships with young people (under 16) to gain their trust and persuade them into vulnerable situations where sexual assault can take place.
A: The accused person must be aware that the person they are alleged to have groomed is under 16 years of age. It is for the prosecution lawyers to prove that the accused knew that the intended target was under 16.

The law is governed by The Protection of Children and Prevention of Sexual Offences (Scotland) 2005. Child grooming offences are, severe, and the Court takes an allegation very seriously. If an investigation does take place, it will be a comprehensive one. Representation from a child grooming lawyer is therefore essential.

The accused person must be aware that the person they are alleged to have groomed is under 16 years of age. It is for the prosecution lawyers to prove that the accused knew that the intended target was under 16.

A person can be guilty of child grooming where no sexual activity actually takes place but where plans are made to meet with a child or even discussed. In recent times many groups who describe themselves as paedophile hunters have emerged online that pretend to be children and lure suspects into a trap by making arrangements to meet. When a suspect engages and indeed sets out to meet the “child”, they are met by the police.

This type of sting operation has recently been declared legal by The Supreme Court of the UK.

Contact our specialist lawyers

If you have been accused of child grooming offences, then you must contact our specialist team of lawyers without delay.

We at Graham Walkers have a great wealth of experience in defending accusations of a sexual nature and will leave no stone unturned in the preparation of your case.