What are Youth Matters?
When a youth from the age of 12 to 17 years is charged with an offense, they are charged with the same offenses under the Canadian Criminal Code or the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act however the sentencing follows different procedures and principles governed by the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
In youth matters, the courts tend to stress rehabilitation and reintegration when dealing with sentencing. In some cases, charges may be withdrawn through the Extra Judicial Measures Program or the Mental Health Diversion (MHD) if agreed by the Crown Prosecutor. If a person is accepted into a program and successfully complete the requirements of that program, charges may be withdrawn.
If the offense is that of a serious nature, the Crown Prosecutor may apply to have the youth sentenced as an adult if that youth is over the age of 14 years.
Parents or guardians are usually informed of the arrest of a youth as well as any court proceedings and sentencing.
There are various ways to defend Youth Matters and the Criminal Defense lawyers Connolly Shurtz Law have several years of experience doing that with a successful outcome.
Consequences:
Serve time in a Young Offenders Center
Possibility of a jail sentence
Possible permanent criminal record
Costly fines and/or restitution