Section 18 of the Youth Criminal Justice Act provides an opportunity for citizens to become directly involved in the administration of youth justice by forming Youth Justice Committees (YJC). A YJC is an alternative to the court system. A panel of community members volunteer to work with young people in conflict with the law, their families, victims, the legal system and the community to find appropriate, meaningful consequences for the young person.
In Calgary, there are 24 Youth Justice Committees that serve over 140 communities. With the efforts of 350+ volunteers, over 800 youths are diverted from court and become the responsibility of their community each year. In 2005, 100 volunteers had served 5 years or more with a Youth Justice Committee.
Operating Principles
- Young persons should be held accountable for their criminal behaviour.- There must be regard for the rights and freedoms of young people and victims.
- The least intrusive alternatives and restrictions of young persons freedom must be sought while still maintaining the protection of the community.
- Parents have a responsibility for the care and supervision of their child.
- The community has a right and responsibility to participate in the youth justice system. A YJC is an opportunity for citizens to become directly involved in reconciling differences between the young offender, victims and community members.