Alternatives to Court
Extrajudicial measures and sanctions may be available.
Youth Criminal Justice
Youth Criminal Defence Lawyer
in Toronto
When a young person is charged with a criminal offence, the whole family is affected. The youth justice system is different from the adult system, and the right guidance matters.
JT Defence Law represents young people aged 12 to 17 facing charges under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, and helps parents and families understand the process.
Schedule a Confidential ConsultationWhy Youth Cases Are Different
The Youth Criminal Justice Act recognizes that young people have reduced moral blameworthiness and a greater capacity for rehabilitation than adults.
The Act emphasizes rehabilitation, reintegration and meaningful consequences. It provides alternatives to court, special protections for statements made to police, limits on publishing a young person’s identity, and rules about who can access youth records and for how long.
Statement Protections
Special rules apply when police question young people.
Privacy
A young person’s identity is generally protected from publication.
Record Limits
Youth records are subject to access periods set by law.
What We Do
Focused representation for young people and families.
We explain the process clearly to the young person and their family, address bail and release quickly, and explore whether the matter can be resolved through extrajudicial measures or sanctions.
Where the case proceeds, we defend the young person fully, including challenging statements taken without the protections the law requires.
Family Guidance
Helping parents understand their role and the process.
Release
Advocating for release with appropriate supports.
Diversion
Pursuing extrajudicial measures and sanctions where possible.
Trial Defence
A full defence where the case proceeds.
Allegations We Defend
Youth allegations
We represent young persons facing a wide range of charges in the Ontario Court of Justice youth court.
- Theft and property offences
- Assault and robbery
- Weapons offences
- Drug offences
- Sexual offences
- Breach of release or probation conditions
Our Approach
- 01
Guide the Family
We explain the charge, the youth justice process and what to expect next.
- 02
Seek Alternatives
We assess eligibility for extrajudicial measures, sanctions or other appropriate outcomes.
- 03
Defend and Protect
We defend the young person in court while keeping their future in focus.
Our Goal: If your child has been arrested or charged, early advice can help protect their rights and their future.
FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common questions about youth criminal cases in Ontario.
01 Who Is Covered By The Youth Criminal Justice Act?
The Act applies to young people who were at least 12 but under 18 years old at the time of the alleged offence, even if they have turned 18 since.
02 Will My Child Have A Criminal Record?
Youth records are treated differently from adult records. Access to them is restricted and, in most cases, ends after a period set by the Act, which depends on the outcome and the offence. Your lawyer can explain how this applies.
03 What Are Extrajudicial Measures And Sanctions?
They are alternatives to formal court proceedings, such as warnings, referrals to community programs, or sanctions with conditions to complete. They can allow a young person to take responsibility without a conviction.
04 Can Police Question My Child Without A Parent Or Lawyer?
The Act gives young people special protections. Before taking a statement, police must explain the young person’s rights in language appropriate to their age, including the right to consult a lawyer and a parent or other adult and to have them present. Statements taken without these protections may be challenged.
05 Can A Young Person Receive An Adult Sentence?
In limited circumstances involving serious offences by youths aged 14 or older, the Crown may apply for an adult sentence. The court must be satisfied that a youth sentence would not be long enough to hold the young person accountable.
This page provides general information about Ontario criminal law and is not legal advice. Every case depends on its own facts. Speak with a lawyer about your specific situation. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Need Immediate Answers?
Speak directly with JT Defence Law about your situation.
Confidential. Experienced. Available.
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JT Defence Law
If your child has been arrested or charged, early advice can help protect their rights and their future.
- Youth bail
- Extrajudicial sanctions
- Statement protections
- Youth court trials
Proudly representing clients across Toronto and Ontario.
