Youth criminal law

When minors are accused of criminal conduct, the legal response must reflect both the seriousness of the offence and the potential for rehabilitation. At Kayrouz & Associates, we provide considered, rights-focused legal defence for juveniles and young adults facing criminal allegations.

Practice Overview

The UAE’s juvenile justice system aims to balance accountability with rehabilitation. Our team has deep experience navigating the unique procedures and protections applicable to minors accused of criminal offences. We advise families from the first moment of investigation, ensuring that the child’s rights are upheld and that the process is handled with sensitivity.

We represent clients in proceedings before juvenile courts, prosecutors, and social protection bodies. Our lawyers are skilled in negotiating alternative measures, such as diversion programs, restorative justice arrangements, and supervised release. We also advise on criminal records and the long-term impact of juvenile convictions on education, employment, and immigration.

Each case requires a tailored defence strategy and a compassionate approach. We work closely with families, educators, and medical professionals to advocate for outcomes that reflect the best interests of the child, while preserving their future.

We offer legal advice on a wide spectrum of matters:

  • Representation in juvenile detention and court proceedings
  • Advising families during police investigations and social inquiries
  • Negotiating diversion programs or alternative sentencing
  • Legal guidance on parental liability and compensation claims
  • Appeals of juvenile convictions or restrictive orders
  • Record expungement and post-sentence advocacy
  • Meet Our Team

    Our team is equipped to handle complex legal matters with precision and care. Learn more about our lawyers below.

    Pierre Kayrouz

    Chief Legal Officer
    Maria Valeyeva

    Maria Valeyeva

    Chief Compliance Officer
    Georges Touma

    Georges Touma

    Head Litigator
    Hanan Ahmed Al Balushi

    Hanan Ahmed

    Practicing Lawyer
    Lathamani Chandrashekar

    Lathamani Chandrashekar

    Senior Corporate Counsel
    Arka Navle

    Arka Navle

    Corporate Counsel
    Nashita Nazneen

    Nashita Nazneen

    Junior Corporate Counsel
    Professor Mark Engelman

    Mark Engelman

    Intellectual Property Barrister
    Rita Semaan

    Rita Semaan

    Legal Consultant
    Carlos Rahme

    Carlos Rahme

    Senior Legal Consultant
    Souhad Al Ghorayeb

    Souhad Al Ghorayeb

    Senior Legal Consultant
    Sandy Y. Geagea

    Sandy Geagea

    Legal Consultant
    Saeed Gaber

    Saeed Gaber

    Legal Research Analyst
    Muhammed Ali Charif

    Muhammed Ali Charif

    Junior Legal Counsel
    Jenifer Abu Nasr

    Jenifer Abu Nasr

    Paralegal
    Patricia Abi Mansour

    Patricia Abi Mansour

    Business Development Manager
    Valakshmi Balasubramanian

    Varalakshmi Balasubramanian

    Operations Assistant
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