Facing youth robbery charges is a serious legal matter that can lead to lasting consequences for a young person. Unlike minor offences that may be resolved through community programs or warnings, robbery is considered a violent and indictable offence under the Criminal Code of Canada. That means the penalties can be significant—even for first-time youth offenders.
If your child or someone you care about has been charged with robbery, understanding how Canada’s youth justice system handles these cases is essential. This guide explains what robbery means in legal terms, what the court process looks like for youth, and how a criminal defence lawyer can help protect your child’s future.
What Is Robbery Under Canadian Law?
Robbery is defined under section 343 of the Criminal Code of Canada. It occurs when someone commits theft and, in doing so, either:
- Uses violence or threats of violence,
- Assaults or attempts to assault someone,
- Carries or uses a weapon (or imitation),
- Or causes bodily harm during the act of theft.
In short, robbery is theft combined with violence or intimidation, and this makes it a much more serious charge than shoplifting or simple theft.
Can a Youth Be Charged With Robbery?
Yes. Under the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA), any person between the ages of 12 and 17 can be charged with robbery if the police believe there is enough evidence. Common scenarios that lead to youth robbery charges include:
- Fights during a mugging or theft
- Group altercations involving stolen property
- Threatening someone to hand over money or personal items
- Using a weapon (real or fake) during a theft
Even if the youth didn’t physically commit the robbery but was present and participating, they may still be charged as a party to the offence.
Is Robbery a Serious Charge for a Young Person?
Absolutely. Robbery is classified as an indictable offence, which is the most serious category of criminal offences in Canada. While the youth system under the YCJA is more focused on rehabilitation than punishment, robbery is still treated with great caution by the courts.
Penalties for youth robbery can include:
- Probation orders
- Deferred custody and supervision
- Open or secure custody
- Community service
- Mandatory counselling or rehabilitation programs
If a firearm was involved or serious harm was caused, the consequences can be even more severe.
What Happens After a Youth Is Charged With Robbery?
1. Arrest and Police Interview
The youth may be arrested on the spot or later, depending on the investigation. Police are required to:
- Notify a parent or guardian
- Advise the youth of their right to remain silent
- Provide access to a lawyer and a responsible adult before questioning
It is critical that the youth exercises their right to legal counsel before speaking to police.
2. Bail Hearing
Due to the serious nature of robbery, a youth may not be released right away. A bail hearing will likely be held to determine whether the youth can be released from custody while awaiting trial.
A defence lawyer can present a strong release plan to the court, which may include conditions like:
- Living at home under parental supervision
- Curfews
- No contact with co-accused or alleged victims
- Attending school or counselling
3. Youth Court Proceedings
Robbery charges for youth are handled in youth court under the YCJA. This involves:
- Disclosure of evidence by the Crown
- Negotiations between the defence and the prosecution
- Possibly a trial if the case cannot be resolved
The goal is to find a resolution that holds the youth accountable while promoting rehabilitation. However, the serious nature of robbery can limit some of the diversion options that are available for less serious charges.
4. Sentencing (If Found Guilty)
If the youth is found guilty, the judge will determine a sentence based on:
- The seriousness of the offence
- The youth’s role in the incident
- Their prior criminal history (if any)
- Evidence of remorse or willingness to rehabilitate
In some robbery cases, custody may be imposed, especially where violence or weapons were involved.
Will a Robbery Charge Create a Criminal Record?
Yes—if a youth is convicted of robbery, they will receive a youth criminal record. This record can affect their ability to:
- Travel internationally (especially to the U.S.)
- Apply for certain jobs or volunteer positions
- Receive scholarships or financial aid
- Secure permanent residency or citizenship (if not already Canadian)
However, youth records are not permanent. Depending on the outcome, they are typically sealed three to five years after the sentence is completed, provided no new charges are laid in that time.
Avoiding a conviction—through diversion, acquittal, or withdrawal—is the best way to protect a young person’s future.
How a Youth Criminal Defence Lawyer Can Help
Navigating a robbery charge in youth court is complex. A skilled youth defence lawyer can:
- Review police evidence and identify weaknesses in the Crown’s case
- Advocate for reduced or alternative charges
- Pursue diversion or restorative justice options where appropriate
- Prepare and present a strong defence at trial
- Minimize sentencing outcomes if a conviction occurs
Early legal intervention can often prevent the most serious consequences and keep a youth’s record clean.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Lichtman Law
If your child is facing youth robbery charges, don’t delay. These are serious allegations with potentially life-altering implications. At Lichtman Law, we have extensive experience defending youth in the Canadian court system and are committed to helping families find the best path forward.
Our approach is rooted in strong legal advocacy, strategic defence planning, and compassionate support for young people and their parents.
Schedule your free consultation today to speak directly with an experienced youth criminal defence lawyer.