Youth Crimes Defence Lawyer Toronto

A criminal charge can have a profound impact on a young person's future.

 

While the Youth Criminal Justice Act ("YCJA") provides special protections and procedures for young persons, youth charged with criminal offences still face serious consequences, including detention, probation, restrictive court orders, and in some cases custodial sentences.

 

If your child has been arrested, charged, or is under investigation, obtaining experienced legal representation as early as possible is critical.

 

At Michael Coristine Law, we represent young persons charged under the Youth Criminal Justice Act and defend a wide range of youth criminal allegations, including:

 

Common Youth Crime Charges

• Assault

• Assault Causing Bodily Harm

• Aggravated Assault

• Sexual Assault

• Domestic Assault

• Uttering Threats

• Criminal Harassment

• Theft

• Shoplifting

• Robbery

• Break and Enter

• Mischief

• Fraud

• Possession of Stolen Property

• Drug Offences

• Weapons Offences

• Firearms Offences

• Dangerous Driving

• Impaired Driving

• Failure to Comply with Court Orders

 

Understanding the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA)

 

The Youth Criminal Justice Act governs criminal proceedings involving individuals between the ages of 12 and 17. The legislation recognizes that young people often possess a different level of maturity, judgment, and decision-making ability than adults and places a greater emphasis on rehabilitation, accountability, and reintegration.

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However, many parents are surprised to learn that youth can still be:

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• Arrested and detained by police

• Held for a bail hearing

• Subject to strict release conditions

• Required to attend court

• Sentenced to custody in serious cases

 

For certain offences, including violent crimes and repeat offending behaviour, the consequences can be significant.

 

A Different Court Process

 

Youth criminal matters proceed differently than adult prosecutions. There are unique rules governing:

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• Police investigations

• Statements made by young persons

• Bail hearings

• Sentencing principles

• Publication bans

• Youth criminal records

• Diversion and extrajudicial measures

 

The law provides important protections for young persons, but those protections must be properly identified and asserted throughout the criminal process.

 

Protecting a Young Person's Future

 

A youth criminal charge can affect more than the outcome of a court case. Parents and young persons often have concerns about:

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• School attendance

• College and university applications

• Employment opportunities

• Professional licensing

• Travel restrictions

• Immigration consequences

• Youth criminal records

 

The goal is not only to address the immediate allegations but also to minimize the long-term impact on a young person's future opportunities.

 

Bail Hearings & Youth Detention

 

Just like adults, young persons may be detained following an arrest and required to attend a bail hearing. In serious cases, a youth may remain in custody pending the resolution of the charges.

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Developing a strong release plan, addressing the Court's concerns, and presenting appropriate supervision and support systems can play an important role in securing release.

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Experienced Youth Crime Defence

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Crown Attorneys receive specialized training regarding the Youth Criminal Justice Act, and many jurisdictions utilize dedicated youth prosecutors to ensure these matters receive appropriate attention and sensitivity.

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Successfully defending youth allegations often requires more than legal advocacy. It frequently involves a patient and collaborative approach with the Court, the Crown, parents, guardians, schools, and community supports.

 

As a former Senior Crown Attorney, Michael Coristine has extensive experience working within the youth criminal justice system and is closely familiar with the Youth Criminal Justice Act and the procedural nuances unique to youth prosecutions. He understands the importance of protecting both a young person's legal rights and their future opportunities.

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Early Intervention Matters

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The decisions made in the days and weeks following an arrest can significantly influence the outcome of a youth criminal case. Early legal advice may help identify opportunities for diversion, alternative resolutions, bail release, or other outcomes that minimize the long-term impact of criminal allegations.

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If your child has been charged with a criminal offence or is under investigation, contact Michael Coristine Law immediately to discuss your options and protect their future.