This study aimed to describe the social, behavioural and offence characteristics of all convicted perpetrators of homicide aged 17 and under; to examine their previous contact with mental health services, and to discuss strategies for homicide prevention. An eight‐year (1996–2004) sample of 363 juvenile homicide perpetrators in England and Wales was examined. The majority of perpetrators were male, used a sharp instrument, and most victims were acquaintances or strangers. Over half had previously offended. A history of alcohol and/or drug misuse was common, as was the prevalence of family dysfunction, abuse, educational difficulties or discipline problems. Previous contact with mental health services was rare. Earlier intervention targeting social and psychological adversity and substance misuse could help to reduce the level of risk for future violence, and may reduce homicide rates among juveniles. Strengthening engagement with young offenders and increasing resources to prevent recidivism may also be beneficial.

This study aimed to examine the proportion of psychiatric reports prepared by experts in the field of child and adolescent psychiatry; to discuss the quality of information available in reports submitted to the court in juvenile homicide trials and to make recommendations for report content in these cases. An eight-year (1996)(1997)(1998)(1999)(2000)(2001)(2002)(2003)(2004) cross-sectional survey of 363 juvenile homicide perpetrators in England and Wales was examined. In 45% (n ¼ 165) of the cases, at least one report was submitted to court. Of these, 61% (101 cases) were prepared by adult psychiatrists and 27% (44 cases) by child and adolescent psychiatrists. Information provided in reports varied depending on the author, with child and adolescent psychiatrists providing more detailed information on developmental items. Our results suggest that more efforts should be made to ensure the most appropriate expert is commissioned to provide a thorough assessment of the juvenile and their mental state at the time of the offence.