Social Studies - Chapter 3: Youth Criminal Justice System

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TERMS

*Fair and equitable* - governed by rules that apply to everyone, taking into account individual needs and circumstances (e.g. when an individual breaks the law, an investigation in the person's circumstances is complete)

*Justice* - applying laws (e.g. an individual breaks the law and is brought to justice for it, getting a ticket and paying the fee)

*Justice system* - the institutions and procedures for applying laws in a society (e.g. individuals such as RCMP, peace, fish and wildlife officers, and sheriffs; institutions such as the provincial, municipal, and Supreme court)

VANCOUVER RIOTS

In 2011, after the Canucks lost the Stanley Cup Final, the city erupted in riots. Police arrested anyone involved in the rioting.

If you are arrested, you have the right...

to remain silent

to speak to a lawyer or guardian

to have your parents with you during questioning

to have a lawyer in court

Youth Criminal Justice System (YCJA)

The YCJA was passed by parliament in 2003, but similar laws have been in place since the 1890s.

It defines the consequences young people aged 12-17 face for criminal offences.

Some examples of consequences include counselling and community service

note - community service: help in the community performed as part of a sentence (e.g. picking up garbage on the highway)

It prohibits adult sentences for youths aged 12-13.

note - sentence: consequence for a crime determined by court of law (e.g. imprisonment)

It allows adult sentences for serious crimes committed by youth fourteen years of age or older.

It protects the privacy of offenders; their name is not published unless they receive an adult sentence.

Most youths avoid a criminal record.

note - criminal record: a permanent record of breaking the law which is made public

Police forces - local, provincial, and federal - are responsible for upholding the YCJA.

Principles of the YCJA

Prevent crimes by addressing the circumstances underlying a youth's offending behaviour.

Rehabilitate youths who commit offences and reintegrate them into society.

Examples of rehabilitation: probation and counselling

To ensure meaningful consequences to promote long-term protection of society.

Must be separate from adult justice system due to reduced maturity.