Youth Criminal Justice System Overview

The Youth Criminal Justice Act governs Canada's youth justice system for individuals aged 12 to 17. It replaced previous legislation in 2013, introducing reforms to address issues like overuse of courts, unfair sentencing, and ineffective reintegration. The act aims to hold youth accountable proportionately, promote rehabilitation, and support crime prevention. Amendments in 2012 focused on handling repeat and violent offenders. The act classifies individuals by age, with varying degrees of responsibility. It emphasizes diversion from court through extrajudicial measures, significantly reducing charges.

What age range does the Youth Criminal Justice Act apply to?

• 10 to 15 years old

• 12 to 17 years old

• 15 to 20 years old

• 18 to 25 years old

When did the Youth Criminal Justice Act come into force?

• April 1, 2014

• April 1, 2011

• April 1, 2012

• April 1, 2013

What was one of the main concerns addressed by the Youth Criminal Justice Act reforms?

• Excessive leniency in sentencing

• Overuse of community service

• Overuse of courts and incarceration

• Lack of police involvement

How is a person aged 11 and younger classified under the Youth Criminal Justice Act?

• As a minor with limited responsibility

• As an adult with full responsibility

• As a child with no criminal responsibility

• As a youth with partial responsibility

What is the classification for individuals aged 18 and older under the Youth Criminal Justice Act?

• Youth with partial responsibility

• Minor with limited responsibility

• Adult with full responsibility

• Child with no responsibility

What is one of the primary objectives of the youth criminal justice system?

• To increase incarceration rates

• To promote rehabilitation and reintegration

• To eliminate community programs

• To reduce police involvement

How does the youth criminal justice system aim to support crime prevention?

• By increasing court trials

• By referring young persons to community programs

• By eliminating extrajudicial measures

• By reducing police presence

What has been the impact of the Youth Criminal Justice Act on charging practices?

• No change in charging practices

• Increase in incarceration rates

• Decrease in charging and increase in extrajudicial measures

• Increase in court cases

What is an example of an extrajudicial measure used under the Youth Criminal Justice Act?

• Warnings and cautions

• Increased police patrols

• Community service

• Mandatory imprisonment

What is the purpose of referring young persons to community programs under the Youth Criminal Justice Act?

• To increase court involvement

• To reduce police workload

• To address underlying circumstances of offending behavior

• To eliminate the need for rehabilitation