ABSTRACT
A good formulation of a young person's needs in relation to the systemic characteristics of an agency and role are important throughout one's involvement. Transparency and consistency are not in many young people's blueprint and, therefore, they may appreciate this approach and know what is mandated by the court and their choices from the outset. Cognitive and learning capacity can be misleading in a young person not understanding some questions or abstract concepts. Young people's characteristics such as engagement, lifestyle and learning ability will affect the choice and nature of intervention. Goals have to be clear from the outset, that is, whether the target is to reduce and eventually eliminate their offending; to relieve related behaviours and emotional distress; or a combination of those. Goals must be realistic and shared between the young person, the parents or carers, the professionals involved and the courts.
