Criminal Code Help
Criminal Code Help
YOUR CITY: Edmonton, Alberta
Select the City closest to you
Loading...
Home / Criminal Offences / Youth Criminal Justice

Youth Criminal Justice Laws in Canada

Youth Criminal Justice Act

Crimes and Diversion Programs for Youth Offenders

If you have been charged with a crime in Edmonton, you should consult with a criminal defence lawyer in your area

Youth Criminal Justice Offences by Type

In addition to the Criminal Code, the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) is a federal statute that regulates the youth justice system in Canada and applies to those between the ages of 12 and 18. This Act emphasizes the notion that jail terms should be reserved for the most serious cases and sets a maximum sentence of 10 years unless the youth is tried as an adult. A youth can be charged with any crime, but their sentence upon conviction will typically include a diversion program designed to help them reintegrate into society. It is important to understand the legal consequences of criminal offenses committed by youth.

Alcohol and Minors
Every province is responsible for its own liquor laws and regulations around giving or serving alcohol to minors.
Homicide Laws (Youth)
If you are a youth convicted of homicide, you could receive the same maximum sentence although you will be eligible for parole much earlier.
Impaired Driving (Youth)
MADD Canada states that traffic accidents continue to be teenagers' leading cause of death.
Parental Responsibility
In every province or territory in Canada there are laws designed to ensure children are provided with day-to-day care and their development and well-bring are supported.
Sentencing Principles (Youth)
The YCJA includes different provisions to handle offences depending on their severity.
Serious Assault (Youth)
If you are a youth between the age of 12 and 18 and convicted of a serious assault, you could be sentenced as an adult.
Simple Assault (Youth)
If you are a youth and charged with simple assault, you will likely avoid jail time depending on the circumstances.
Shoplifting (Youth)
Shoplifted items can be as small as a candy bar, but they can still lead to charges.
Theft (Youth)
Theft is taking property without the owner's consent and is an offence unless you believe it belongs to you.
Truancy
Truancy is defined as being absent from school without a valid reason. There is no charge in the Code for truancy.
Vandalism (Youth)
You may think throwing eggs at a house is harmless, but it can come with criminal consequences.
Weapons Laws (Youth)
Weapons are commonly thought to be guns or knives but anything that can inflict harm can be considered a weapon.
Youth Criminal Justice Act
The YCJA aims to consider the interests of victims while ensuring “accountability" through meaningful consequences, rehabilitation and reintegration.

EdmontonLawyersNear Me

Lawrence & Tkachuk

Edmonton, Alberta
17329 – 105 Avenue NW
(780) 428-0777

Doz Yaggey Lee Llp

Edmonton, Alberta
Suite 400 Princeton Place, 10339 124 Street NW
(780) 422-6228

Capital City Law

Edmonton, Alberta
Phipps-McKinnon Building 870, 10020 101A Ave
(780) 462-4321

Chartrand Law Office

Edmonton, Alberta
Wentworth Building, Suite 204, 10209 – 97 Street
(780) 999-8001

Rg Defence Llp

Edmonton, Alberta
2020-10060 Jasper Avenue NW
(587) 982-8152

Northcott Edgerton Barristers

Edmonton, Alberta
9902 111 St NW
(780) 488-0300
Youth Offences in Edmonton, Alberta - Referenced Links

Government References

Youth Criminal Justice Act
https://www.laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/y-1.5/index.html
Department of Justice
https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/
Criminal Code
https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/c-46/