Young people charged with criminal offences are treated differently under Canadian law, and for good reason. The Youth Criminal Justice Act recognizes that adolescents make mistakes, that rehabilitation works, and that a criminal record at 16 should not dictate a life at 40. But that protection is not automatic. It takes an experienced defence lawyer to unlock it.
For many first-time and less-serious offences, the best outcome is diversion away from the court system entirely, through extrajudicial measures. These resolutions can mean community service, counselling, or a letter of apology, with no finding of guilt and no criminal record.
Youth cases come with automatic publication bans on the young person’s identity. I make sure these bans are respected, that your child’s name never appears in the public record, and that their youth record is sealed at the earliest moment the law allows.
Some youth cases must be fought. Sexual offences, serious assaults, and weapons charges can follow a young person into adulthood if not dealt with carefully. I prepare these cases for trial with the same rigour as any adult case, because the stakes, measured over a lifetime, are the same.
I answer my phone directly. If I can’t, I return calls as soon as I can. Evenings and weekends included.
Call (905) 955-6293 Or text the same numberSchedule a free 30-minute consultation. No obligation. Pick a time that works for you.
Or call (905) 955-6293Tell me what’s going on. I’ll read it and write back. Or email [email protected] directly.
I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.
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