Best Juvenile Law Lawyers in Aurora

About Juvenile Law in Aurora, Canada

Juvenile Law, also known as youth justice law, is a specialized area of law in Canada that deals with individuals under the age of 18 who are accused of committing criminal offences. In Aurora, as in the rest of Canada, these cases are primarily governed by the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA). The Act recognizes that young persons are different from adults and should be treated with fairness, ensuring that their rights are protected throughout the legal process. The youth justice system focuses on rehabilitation, reintegration, and accountability, seeking outcomes that promote the long-term wellbeing of young people and society.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are various situations in which you or your child may require legal advice or representation in the area of Juvenile Law:

• Your child has been arrested or charged with a criminal offence.
• You have concerns about how the police treated your child during questioning or detention.
• Your family needs advice on navigating the court process or understanding possible consequences.
• You believe your child’s rights under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms have been violated.
• Your child is facing issues with bail, release conditions, or probation orders.
• You are seeking to engage alternative measures or diversion programs for your child.
• There are questions about the sealing or destruction of youth records.
• Your child is experiencing discrimination or unfair treatment within the justice system.

A knowledgeable lawyer can protect your child’s rights, explain legal options, and provide guidance to help achieve the best possible outcome.

Local Laws Overview

Juvenile Law in Aurora is governed by federal statutes, but interpretation and application can vary at the local level. Key aspects include:

• Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA): This federal law sets out procedures and protections for youth in conflict with the law. It emphasizes rehabilitation, reintegration, and minimizing the use of custody for young persons.
• York Regional Police Procedures: Aurora is policed by the York Regional Police, which has youth officers and follows protocols for dealing with young offenders, including notifications to parents and access to legal counsel.
• Alternative Measures: Programs such as diversions or extrajudicial sanctions may be available locally, allowing certain youth to avoid formal charges or court proceedings.
• Timely Intervention: The system aims to resolve cases quickly, recognizing the importance of timely consequences and the developmental needs of young people.
• Rights Protections: Youth have the right to be informed of their rights (including the right to legal counsel and to remain silent) and to have a parent, guardian, or adult present during police questioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age range for youth justice cases in Aurora, Canada?

Juvenile Law applies to individuals from 12 years old up to, and including, 17 years old at the time of the alleged offence.

What happens when a young person is arrested?

The police must inform the young person of their rights, including the right to speak to a lawyer and to have a parent or adult present. Parents or guardians are typically notified. The youth may be released or held for a bail hearing.

How are youth sentences different from adult sentences?

Youth sentences are usually less severe than adult sentences and focus more on rehabilitation. Custody is used only as a last resort, and community-based measures are preferred where appropriate.

Can a youth get a criminal record?

Yes, but youth records are subject to different rules than adult records. In many cases, youth records can be sealed or destroyed after a certain period if the youth does not reoffend.

Are parents responsible for their child’s actions?

Parents are not usually criminally responsible for their child’s actions, but they may be involved in the legal process and expected to support their child. In some cases, civil liability may arise.

What rights does a young person have during police questioning?

A young person has the right to remain silent, to speak to a lawyer and to a parent or another adult, and to have that adult present during questioning.

What is an alternative measure or diversion program?

Alternative measures, such as community service or counselling, allow a youth to take responsibility for their actions without going through the formal court process, provided they meet certain criteria.

Can a youth be tried as an adult?

In rare and very serious cases, the Crown may apply to have a youth sentenced as an adult, but this is uncommon and subject to strict legal criteria.

How can a youth record be sealed or destroyed?

Youth records are automatically sealed after a set period, as long as the youth does not reoffend. The length of time varies depending on the nature of the offence and the sentence.

What role do support services play in youth justice?

Support services, like mental health counselling or community mentorships, are often integral to the process of rehabilitation and successful reintegration for young people involved in the justice system.

Additional Resources

If you are seeking more help or information regarding Juvenile Law in Aurora, consider contacting the following resources:

• Legal Aid Ontario: Offers free or low-cost legal assistance to qualifying youth and their families.
• York Regional Police - Youth Services: Provides information about youth criminal procedures and available diversion programs.
• Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General - Youth Justice Services: Oversees youth justice courts and services in Ontario.
• Community Legal Clinics: Local clinics may provide legal advice and referrals for youth in conflict with the law.
• 211 Ontario: A free helpline connecting people to over 60,000 community and social services, including legal resources.
• Justice for Children and Youth: A legal aid clinic focused specifically on legal issues affecting young people in Ontario.

Next Steps

If you or someone you know needs legal assistance in the area of Juvenile Law in Aurora, Canada:

1. Gather all relevant documentation and information about the situation, including police reports and court documents.
2. Contact a lawyer experienced in youth justice law for a confidential consultation. If cost is a concern, inquire about Legal Aid or local legal clinics.
3. Ensure the youth’s rights are protected during any interactions with police or other agencies by insisting on the presence of legal counsel or a trusted adult.
4. Familiarize yourself with applicable resources, including local diversion programs and support services.
5. Stay informed and involved in all stages of the process to help achieve the best possible outcome for the young person involved.

Seeking legal advice early can make a significant difference. Prompt action and proper guidance will help navigate the youth justice process and protect the rights and best interests of the young person.