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Why Do Young People Need a Defence Lawyer When They Get into Legal Trouble?
That’s a question many parents ask when they find themselves in a situation they never thought they’d face.
When a young person gets charged with a crime in Canada, especially in cities like Toronto, the case is handled under a special system called the Youth Criminal Justice System.
It works differently from the adult system, and that’s where a defence lawyer comes in. Their role is not just about fighting a case in court, but also about helping the young person understand their rights, guiding them through the process, and making sure they don’t face long-term damage for a mistake they may have made at a young age.
Let’s take a closer look at what a youth criminal defence lawyer does and how they make a difference.
What is the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA)?
In Canada, there’s a law made especially for people between the ages of 12 and 17 who get into legal issues. It’s called the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
The goal of this law is not to punish harshly but to give young people a chance to fix their mistakes and move on with their lives.
But even though the system is built to be fair, it can still be confusing and stressful. That’s why having a defence lawyer is important.
What Does a Youth Defence Lawyer Do?
A youth defence lawyer plays a very important role, and it starts from the moment a charge is made.
1. Explains the Process Clearly
Most young people and their families don’t know what happens after someone is charged. A lawyer explains everything step-by-step.
They tell the family what to expect, what rights the youth has, and how to prepare. They make sure no one feels lost or scared.
2. Protects the Youth’s Rights
Sometimes, police or others involved may not explain everything properly. A defence lawyer ensures that the youth’s rights are respected throughout.
For example, they make sure the youth knows they have the right to remain silent or to have a parent or lawyer with them while being questioned.
3. Talks to the Court and the Crown
The lawyer talks to the judge and the Crown (the government lawyer) on behalf of the youth. In many cases, they try to resolve the issue outside of a trial.
They might ask for things like community service, counselling, or a program that helps the youth stay out of future trouble.
4. Builds a Defence that Fits the Situation
Every case is different. A good defence lawyer looks at the full picture: the youth’s background, school life, family, and past behaviour. They create a defence that matches what’s fair and right for that individual. They don’t just focus on the charge they look at the whole person.
5. Keeps the Future in Mind
One of the most important things a youth defence lawyer does is try to protect the young person’s future. A criminal record at a young age can affect school, work, and travel plans later on. The lawyer will do everything they can to avoid that and help the youth move forward with a clean slate.
Why is the Approach Different for Youth?
The court understands that young people don’t always think like adults. Their decision-making skills are still developing. The law takes this into account, and so do lawyers who work in youth defence.
A youth defence lawyer doesn’t just fight a case. They try to help the young person learn from the situation. They connect them with positive programs, support networks, and sometimes even counselling.
The idea is to help them grow in the right direction, not to pull them down with punishments that don’t fit their age or maturity.
That’s why many families turn to experienced legal teams when their child faces a criminal charge. A defence lawyer who knows the Youth Criminal Justice System well can make a big difference. For example, in Criminal Lawyer Toronto, the focus is always on protecting the youth’s future while handling the legal side with care.
The Importance of Communication
Young people are often scared or unsure when they’re in trouble. They may not want to talk openly.
A good youth defence lawyer knows how to talk to them in a way that feels safe and respectful. They don’t talk down or scare them; instead, they explain things in a way that makes sense.
At the same time, the lawyer also keeps parents informed. Parents play a big role in supporting their child during this time, and the lawyer helps make sure everyone is on the same page.
What Happens After the Case is Over?
Even when the legal part is done, there may still be things to deal with, like following through on court orders, finishing community service, or attending counselling.
The defence lawyer often continues to help the family understand what needs to be done next. They also help with getting records sealed or removed if possible, so that the youth has the best chance to move on.
This kind of support doesn’t just help the young person avoid more trouble, it gives them confidence to focus on school, friendships, and their future.
Final Thoughts
When a youth is charged with a crime, it’s not just a legal problem; it affects their education, family life, and self-confidence. A defence lawyer helps to handle all of that most responsibly. They don’t just deal with the law; they care about the whole person. That’s what makes their role so important in youth criminal justice cases.
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