Youth Criminal Justice

Youth Criminal Justice
in Edmonton & Calgary, Alberta

When a minor under the age of 18 is charged with a crime, it is handled under the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA). The purpose of the Act is to explain the law in a way that minors can understand, as well as to provide special rules, guidelines, and procedures throughout the criminal justice process.

Ultimately, the Crown understands that minors under the age of 18 are not yet fully developed, either mentally or emotionally. They lack the maturity, judgment, and experience of an adult, and should therefore be treated differently when accused or charged with a crime.

This does not mean that minors cannot be held accountable for their crimes, however. As the parent or guardian of a minor who has been accused of a crime, it is essential that you understand the minors’ rights and responsibilities. 

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    Minor Rights Under the YCJA

    Minors who are accused of a crime have several rights under the YCJA, including:

    • The right to an age-appropriate explanation of the charges against them by the arresting law enforcement officer at the time of the arrest
    • The right to counsel
      • Ensure that the young person understands the charges against them
      • Ensure that the young person understands the process
      • Ensure that the young person understands their options
    • The right to privacy
      • The youths name and other identifying information will not be published
    • The right to bail
    • The right to have their parent or guardian notified of the charges against them as soon as possible

    The criminal justice system is complex, and the YCJA is broad, covering many other rights, responsibilities, rules, and regulations for minors and youth who are accused of a crime.

    Goals of the YCJA

    The purpose and goals of the youth criminal justice system are often different than the goals of the adult criminal justice system. For minors, the Crown not only wants to hold them accountable for their mistakes, but also:

    • Provide prompt and fair resolutions
    • Address and understand the minors’ reason for their behavior, including circumstances, home life, and facts
    • Provide intervention, where necessary and applicable, to prevent the minor from repeating their mistakes and behaviors
    • To rehabilitate and help the minor re-enter society

    Call our Experienced Defence Lawyer's Today!

    If you are the parent or guardian of a minor who has been accused of a crime, we understand that you may be scared, nervous, and full of questions. Our priority is to help you and your family understand what is going to happen and help you navigate the system to find the best outcome possible for your minor child.

    But the criminal justice system does not wait – even for minors. You should speak with one of our experienced, compassionate attorneys’ as quickly as possible in order to enforce the rights afforded to your minor child.

    Call us today for your free consultation so we can start your defence right away.

    Receptionist Brittany Wrusch