Youth Criminal Justice Act

The act that describes the consequences for young offenders (12-17) in Canada. It recognizes that youth have rights protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Canadian Bill of Rights and the United Nation's Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Means to keep a jury together in a place so that they cannot discuss a case with other people or read or hear news reports about it.

The side of the law providing evidence to support the guilt of an accused person.

The side of the law providing evidence to support the innocence of an accused person.

To instill positive behaviours and attitudes.

To make part of again.

A criminal record is a permanent record of breaking the law, which is public information. A criminal record can bar you from some jobs, volunteer positions and travel to other countries.

- consists of twelve people and all twelve must agree on the verdict. Their decision must be unanimous
- must be 18 years or older
- must be a Canadian citizen

The justice system is the institutions and procedures for applying laws in a society.

Youth Criminal Justice Act Criminal Code of Canada

• Deals with 12-17 year old in trouble with the law.

• Deals with adults in trouble with the law.

• Allows some young offenders to face consequences such as counseling and community service.

• Makes going to court the usual consequence for breaking the law.

• Prohibits adult sentences for youths 12-14 years of age. Allows adult sentences for young people 14 years of age and old who have committed serious crimes.

• Defines adult sentences, which can include long periods of imprisonment for some crimes.

• Protects the privacy of young offenders. News media may not publish their names unless they receive an adult sentence.

• Allows the publication of offenders’ names.

• Allows most young offenders to avoid a criminal record.

• Creates a criminal record for most offenders.

- provide community service for a certain period of time
- attend an education program such as for drugs and/or alcohol
- reprimand (warning)
- fine
- compensation (pay money to victim)
- restitution (return stolen goods to owner)
- probation (supervision)
- serve time

- the seriousness of the offence (violent or non-violent)
- history of the young person (been in trouble before?)
- attitude of the young person (takes responsibility?)
- circumstances of the young person (actions may relate to substance abuse, home situation, support from social worker)

- intended to prevent crimes
- tries to rehabilitate and reintegrate young offenders
- to ensure a young person is subject to meaningful consequences for his/her offence to promote long-term protection of society
- must be separate from that of adults
- recognizes a young persons reduced level of maturity

- advocacy groups provide public education programs about laws and the justice system
- help those who have difficulty in defending themselves and can help in the prevention of future crimes
- stand up for the rights of youths and adults accused of crimes
- call for measures to improve the fairness of the justice system for people accused of crimes and those harmed by crime

The Elizabeth Fry Society focuses on justice issues for women and girls. The John Howard Society works with men, women, boys and girls in trouble with the law.