Social work practice remains concerned about the widespread human rights abuses and the exclusion of children’s voices during statutory intervention. As stipulated by The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1994), confirmed by The African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (1999) and the Children’s Act (Section 10, 38 of 2005), it is of paramount importance that the child, which includes the adolescent, must experience freedom of expression as well as the right to be heard during statutory proceedings. However, it is argued that despite the national and international focus on the importance of child participation, the question remains if children do understand and receive the opportunity to participate in practise. This article reflects on adolescents’ understanding and experiences of their right to participate during statutory intervention.