In Ontario and throughout Canada, youths are held to the same standards are adults when it comes to obeying the law. The YCJA (Youth Criminal Justice Act) outlines the procedures and processes of youths who have been charged with criminal offences. A youth is defined as anyone who is at least 12 years old and less than 18 years old.
The YCJA outlines the processes police must follow when detaining, arresting, charging, and questioning a youth. Furthermore, the YCJA covers the rights of youths, as well as their trial process, sentencing guidelines, and handling of youth criminal records.
Oftentimes, the police will use their discretion to determine whether to arrest and charge a youth with a criminal offence. For instance, if the offence is less serious and the youth does not have any prior offences, then the police may decide to issue a warning to the youth and inform their parents without any formal charges.
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