Resources about the distinct laws and separate system for handling crimes committed by people under the age of 18, sometimes called young offenders.
Legislation
Alberta
Youth Justice Act, RSA 2000, c Y-1
To access the official version go to: Alberta King’s Printer
Federal
Canada/Federal
They're Canada's only toll-free, 24-hour, bilingual and anonymous phone counselling, referral and Internet service for children and youth. The service is completely anonymous and confidential - they don't trace calls, they don't use call display. You don't even have to tell them your name if you don't want to. (1-800-668-6868)
Text of the Youth Criminal Justice Act (2002, c. 1) from the Department of Justice Canada website.
The youth justice system affects individuals between the ages of 12 and 17 who get into trouble with the law. The goal of the Department of Justice is to ensure a fair and effective youth justice system. This website provides information on the Youth Criminal Justice Act and links to tools and resources for the classroom.
This Department of Justice Canada resource outlines the different rules that apply to youth records. It discusses issues such as when the record will be destroyed, who has access to the file, the impact it may have on work and travel and information about getting a pardon. There is also a chart outlining when, or if, the record will be destroyed. Also may be downloaded as a PDF.
International
The International Juvenile Justice Observatory, with its headquarters in Brussels, was founded in 2002 with the goal of encouraging a global juvenile justice without borders. Activities include promotion of legal instruments and strategies on an international level, participation in research projects, the development of training actions and the holding of congresses and conferences.
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