The Youth Criminal System in Canada: What Parents Need to Know
As a criminal defence lawyer who has represented numerous young clients in Canada's youth criminal justice system, I understand the concerns and questions parents may have when their child becomes involved in the criminal justice system. The youth criminal system in Canada is unique and has its own set of [...] Read more ›
Understanding Plea Bargains: Pros and Cons in the Canadian Criminal Justice System

Plea bargains are a common practice in the Canadian criminal justice system, and they play a significant role in resolving criminal cases without going to trial. In this article, we will explore the concept of plea bargains, their pros and cons, and their implications in the Canadian legal system. Whether […]

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Understanding Aggravating and Mitigating Factors in Criminal Sentencing: A Canadian Perspective

In Canada, the process of determining an appropriate sentence for a convicted offender involves careful consideration of various factors, including aggravating and mitigating factors. These factors are critical in shaping the outcome of a sentencing decision, and it is essential to understand how they are assessed and applied within the […]

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Youth Criminal Records: Access, Sealing, and Implications

The youth criminal justice system operates differently from the adult criminal justice system, recognizing the reduced maturity of young offenders. Rehabilitation and privacy protection are key principles of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, which aims to provide enhanced procedural safeguards for youth. One important aspect of youth criminal records is […]

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Youth Murder Sentencing: Her Majesty The Queen v. A.M.

The youth plead guilty to second degree murder in a shooting death. The Crown sought an order that an adult sentence be imposed. The sentencing hearing proceeded by way of an agreed statement of facts.  The court considered a pre-sentence report, a forensic assessment and a behaviour summary report concerning the youth’s time in […]

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Youth Sentence Appeal: Her Majesty The Queen v. T.J.D.

In this youth sentence appeal, the youth pleaded guilty to two counts of motor vehicle theft and to failure to comply with a youth sentence.  He was sentenced to an 18-month custody and community supervision order, followed by 12 months of supervised probation and a 2-year driving prohibition.  The youth sought […]

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Youth Manslaughter Sentencing: Her Majesty The Queen v. T.D.K.

The youth was charged with murder. At trial, Joshua Rogala successfully defended the murder charge. The jury found the youth guilty of manslaughter and criminal negligence causing bodily harm as a result of an incident where the youth struck two people while driving a van. The Crown Attorney made an application for […]

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