Youth Offenders in Canada
When a Youth Commits a Crime in Canada:
People are considered as “YOUTH” if they are between 12 and 17 years old.
When a youth commits a crime:
• The police may charge the youth of the crime, or ;
• The police may decide that there are other ways to hold the youth accountable for the offence. This is called an ‘extrajudicial measure’.
• The offending youth has the right to ask for a lawyer.
Youth Court Appearance:
• The offending youth must attend court if he is required to. Failure to do so could mean another offense ( Failure to appear).
• A parent, guardian, or a responsible adult ( if parent or guardian are not available) should attend court with the offending youth.
• The youth has the right to plead guilty or to choose a trial.
• The youth can change a ‘not guilty’ plea at any time before the court makes a decision.
• A youth court record is a serious matter.
Youth Justice Court Considerations when Sentencing a Youth:
• How involved they are in the offence
• The victim’s harm
• A previous record
Possible Sentences the Offender Might Get:
• A reprimand
• A fine
• Compensation to the victim
• Community service
• Probation
• Custody and supervision order