If your child or teen is facing criminal charges, securing the right legal representation is critical. Youth crime is handled under a separate legal framework in Canada that focuses on rehabilitation and reintegration rather than punishment. A skilled youth crime lawyer can help your child navigate the legal process, protect their rights, and work toward a resolution that avoids long-term consequences.
This article explains what youth crime involves, how the youth justice system works, and why hiring a lawyer with experience in youth cases is one of the most important decisions a family can make.
What Is Youth Crime?
Youth crime refers to criminal offences allegedly committed by individuals between the ages of 12 and 17. These cases are governed by the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA), which came into effect in 2003 to replace the former Young Offenders Act. The YCJA creates a distinct legal process for youth that takes into account their age, maturity, and potential for rehabilitation.
Young people can be charged with nearly any criminal offence that would apply to an adult, but the consequences and court procedures are different.
Common Youth Criminal Offences
Youth can be charged with a wide variety of criminal offences. Some of the most common include:
- Assault or assault causing bodily harm
- Theft, shoplifting, or possession of stolen property
- Mischief or vandalism
- Robbery
- Drug possession or trafficking
- Uttering threats or harassment
- Break and enter
- Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
Whether it’s a first-time minor offence or a serious allegation involving violence or weapons, it’s crucial to treat every charge seriously and obtain legal guidance early in the process.
How the Youth Criminal Justice System Works
The YCJA sets out a specific process for how youth crime is handled in Canada. Here are the key stages:
Police Interaction
Police may choose to issue a warning or caution, refer the youth to community-based programs, or lay formal charges. Parents or guardians must be notified when a youth is arrested or charged. The youth must be informed of their right to remain silent and to speak with a lawyer.
Diversion Options
In less serious cases, a youth may be diverted away from court through extrajudicial measures or extrajudicial sanctions. These can include apologies to victims, restitution, community service, or participation in counselling.
A youth crime lawyer can negotiate with the Crown to secure a diversion program, helping the youth avoid a criminal record and the court process entirely.
Youth Court Proceedings
If formal charges are laid, the case proceeds through youth court. The youth will attend court appearances with a parent or guardian. A lawyer will receive and review disclosure, speak with the Crown, and either resolve the case through negotiation or proceed to trial.
Youth court is typically closed to the public, and special rules apply to the use of names, identities, and records.
Sentencing
If the youth pleads guilty or is found guilty at trial, the judge will determine a sentence based on the seriousness of the offence and the youth’s background. Sentences can include:
- Judicial reprimands
- Probation
- Community service
- Restitution
- Deferred custody and supervision orders
- Open or secure custody
The court will consider factors such as remorse, accountability, and the youth’s willingness to participate in rehabilitation.
Will a Youth Crime Lead to a Criminal Record?
If a youth is convicted of a criminal offence, they will receive a youth record. While not the same as an adult criminal record, a youth record can still affect employment, travel, and other opportunities during the open period. The record is kept for a limited time, typically between three and five years after the sentence is completed.
The best way to avoid a youth record is to work with a youth crime lawyer who can pursue diversion, negotiate for lesser charges, or defend the case at trial.
Why Hire a Youth Crime Lawyer?
The youth criminal justice system is complex and has its own rules, procedures, and sentencing principles. A lawyer experienced in youth cases will:
- Protect your child’s legal rights from the start
- Seek resolution options that avoid court and criminal records
- Provide guidance and representation during interviews, bail hearings, and court appearances
- Negotiate with the Crown to reduce or withdraw charges
- Advocate for non-custodial, rehabilitative sentences where possible
- Help families understand the process and prepare for what’s ahead
Without proper legal support, a youth may make decisions early in the process that negatively impact their future.
How Parents Can Support the Process
Parents and guardians play a key role in the youth justice process. Courts expect parents to attend all court appearances and support their child in complying with bail or sentencing conditions. This includes:
- Ensuring the youth attends school or counselling
- Monitoring compliance with curfews or no-contact orders
- Keeping communication open and constructive
- Participating in family counselling if recommended
A committed and stable home environment can help reduce the likelihood of repeat offences and improve outcomes in court.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Lichtman Law, Youth Crime Lawyer
If your child has been charged with a criminal offence, it’s important to act quickly. The earlier you speak with a youth crime lawyer, the better the chances of resolving the matter in a way that protects your child’s future.
At Lichtman Law, we specialize in defending youth across Ontario. We understand how to work within the YCJA framework to get results that prioritize second chances and rehabilitation.
Schedule your free consultation today and speak directly with a youth criminal defence lawyer.