Juvenile crimes are a sensitive area of the legal system, requiring a careful balance between accountability and rehabilitation. If your child is facing criminal charges, finding an experienced lawyer for juvenile crimes is crucial. The right legal representation ensures that your child’s rights are protected, their future is safeguarded, and their case is handled with expertise and compassion.
This article provides an in-depth look at the importance of hiring a lawyer for juvenile crimes, how these cases differ from adult criminal cases, and why experienced representation can make all the difference.
What Are Juvenile Crimes?
Juvenile crimes refer to offences committed by individuals under the age of 18. In Canada, these cases are governed by the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA), which focuses on rehabilitation and reintegration rather than punishment. Common types of juvenile crimes include:
- Theft and Shoplifting
- Assault and Bullying-Related Offences
- Drug Possession and Distribution
- Vandalism and Property Damage
- Cybercrimes, Including Hacking and Online Harassment
- Underage Drinking and Driving Offences
While these offences may appear minor, they can have significant consequences, including a criminal record that may impact educational and employment opportunities.
How Are Juvenile Crimes Handled Differently from Adult Crimes?
Juvenile crimes are treated differently from adult offences, reflecting the belief that young offenders have a greater capacity for rehabilitation. Key differences include:
- Focus on Rehabilitation: The YCJA emphasizes rehabilitation and reintegration, aiming to help young offenders learn from their mistakes and become productive members of society.
- Privacy Protections: Juvenile cases are handled with strict confidentiality to protect the young person’s identity. Publication bans are common to prevent long-term reputational harm.
- Alternative Measures: Courts often explore alternative measures, such as community service, counselling, or restorative justice programs, as alternatives to incarceration.
- Reduced Sentencing: Sentencing for juveniles is typically less severe than for adults, focusing on corrective measures rather than punishment.
Despite these differences, juvenile cases can still result in serious consequences, making experienced legal representation essential.
Why You Need an Experienced Lawyer for Juvenile Crimes
Hiring a lawyer who specializes in juvenile crimes offers several advantages:
- Expert Knowledge of the YCJA
- Juvenile cases are governed by the Youth Criminal Justice Act, which differs significantly from the Criminal Code of Canada. An experienced lawyer understands these differences and uses them to advocate for your child’s best interests.
- Protection of Rights
- A lawyer ensures that your child’s rights are protected during every stage of the legal process, from arrest to trial. This includes preventing self-incrimination, ensuring fair treatment, and challenging any Charter violations.
- Tailored Defence Strategies
- Juvenile cases often require a different approach than adult cases. An experienced lawyer will craft a defence strategy that focuses on rehabilitation and minimizing the long-term impact of the charges.
- Navigating Alternative Measures
- Lawyers familiar with juvenile cases can negotiate alternative measures, such as diversion programs or restorative justice, which may result in charges being dropped upon successful completion.
- Advocacy in Court
- If the case proceeds to trial, a skilled lawyer will present a compelling defence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue for leniency, ensuring the best possible outcome for your child.
Steps a Lawyer Takes to Handle Juvenile Crime Cases
When you hire an experienced lawyer for juvenile crimes, they will take a systematic approach to build a strong defence. Here’s what you can expect:
- Case Assessment
- The lawyer reviews the charges, police reports, and evidence to identify strengths and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Consultation with the Client and Family
- The lawyer will meet with the young offender and their family to understand the circumstances, provide guidance, and explain the legal process.
- Negotiation with the Crown Prosecutor
- In many juvenile cases, the lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor to seek alternative measures, such as counselling or community service, instead of formal charges.
- Charter Challenges
- If the arrest or investigation involved a violation of the young person’s Charter rights, the lawyer may file motions to exclude evidence or dismiss charges.
- Representation in Court
- If the case proceeds to trial, the lawyer presents evidence, cross-examines witnesses, and makes persuasive arguments to the judge, emphasizing the young person’s capacity for rehabilitation.
- Post-Trial Support
- After the case concludes, the lawyer may assist with record sealing, ensuring the young offender can move forward without a permanent criminal record.
Consequences of Juvenile Crimes
While the YCJA focuses on rehabilitation, juvenile offences can still result in serious consequences, including:
- Custodial Sentences: In some cases, young offenders may be sentenced to youth custody facilities.
- Probation: Courts may impose probation conditions, such as curfews, mandatory counselling, or restrictions on social media use.
- Criminal Records: While juvenile records are often sealed, certain serious offences can result in records that impact future opportunities.
- Impact on Education and Employment: A criminal charge can affect school enrolment, scholarships, and job prospects.
Having an experienced lawyer can mitigate these consequences and provide your child with the best chance of a positive outcome.
Why Choose De Boyrie Law for Juvenile Crimes
At De Boyrie Law, we understand that young offenders deserve a chance to learn from their mistakes without facing lifelong repercussions. Our legal team has extensive experience handling juvenile cases, offering compassionate support and strategic representation. Here’s why we are the best choice:
- Expertise in Juvenile Cases: We have a deep understanding of the Youth Criminal Justice Act and the unique challenges of representing young offenders.
- Focus on Rehabilitation: Our approach prioritizes rehabilitation and alternative measures, ensuring your child’s future is protected.
- Proven Track Record: We have successfully defended numerous juvenile clients, achieving outcomes that allow them to move forward without lasting harm.
- Client-Centred Advocacy: We work closely with families, keeping you informed and involved throughout the legal process.
- Compassionate Support: We understand the emotional toll of juvenile cases and provide the guidance and reassurance you need during this difficult time.
Schedule a Free Consultation with De Boyrie Law
If your child is facing criminal charges, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact De Boyrie Law today to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Our experienced lawyers will review your case, discuss your options, and build a strong defence tailored to your child’s needs. Let us help protect your child’s rights, future, and opportunities.
Alex De Boyrie is an experienced Criminal Defence Lawyer covering Toronto, and the Greater Toronto Area.
In short, Alex’s experience ranges from working on bail hearings, sexual offences, weapons and firearms, assault charges, drug offences, youth crimes, Impaired Driving, and other criminal offences.