Access to justice is essential for the protection of the rights of children. It is especially important for protection from discrimination, violence, abuse and exploitation, and for ensuring their best interests in all actions involving or having an impact on them. Due to their dependent status, children are most vulnerable when they need the justice system or come into contact with it, as victims, witnesses and offenders, or when judicial or administrative intervention is required for their custody or protection. Children living in poverty are particularly exposed to denial of their rights and are at additional risk of exploitation.