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Youth court sentences

Last updated on March 12, 2026

According to the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA), youth under 18 when the crime was committed may be handled differently than an adult.

The YCJA:

  • Defines the purpose of youth sentences and possible outcomes for a youth offender
  • Provides the principles and factors that must be considered when a youth is given a sentence
  • Sets out conditions that must be applied before a youth is sentenced to custody
  • Requires community supervision be part of all custodial sentences

These sections apply only when a youth sentence is given. If an adult sentence is given, the YCJA no longer applies.

Jury duty

A jury is a group of people who decide if an accused person in a criminal trial is guilty or if a claim in a civil trial has been proven. Learn more about jury duty.