Youth Criminal Justice (YCJA)

The Youth Criminal Justice Act governs how young persons aged 12 to 17 are treated in Canada's criminal justice system. If you or your child is facing criminal charges in Kingston, Napanee, Brockville, or Belleville, understanding the youth justice system and its protections is essential.

How Youth Justice Differs from Adult Court

The YCJA operates on different principles than adult criminal law:

• Focus on rehabilitation and reintegration
• Alternative measures prioritized over formal court proceedings
• Age-appropriate accountability
• Emphasis on timely intervention
• Recognition of limited maturity and different circumstances

Youth court proceedings occur separately from adult courts, with specialized procedures designed for young persons.

Youth Court Process

When matters proceed to court, special procedures apply:

Publication Bans: Youth names cannot be published, protecting privacy and future opportunities

Parental Involvement: Parents must be notified and can participate in proceedings

Legal Representation: Youth have right to counsel, with legal aid more readily available

Pre-Sentence Reports: Detailed reports about youth background and circumstances inform sentencing

Moving Forward

The Youth Criminal Justice Act provides significant protections for young persons, including alternatives to court proceedings, rehabilitation-focused sentences, and record protection through access periods and eventual sealing. The system recognizes that youth should not face lifelong consequences for adolescent mistakes.

If your child is facing youth criminal charges in Eastern Ontario, understanding the available alternatives, how youth court differs from adult proceedings, and the record protection mechanisms is essential to navigating the system effectively.