Young Offenders

When a person under the age of 18 is charged with a criminal or drug offence special rules apply.  This starts as early as the investigation and bail hearing, and continues all the way through the trial, and even to sentencing where necessary.  WSGA lawyers are well versed in the details of the Youth Criminal Justice Act and the special considerations that the justice system affords young persons.

Make no mistake, the age of the accused is of great significance, regardless of the charge.  Even charged with murder, the rules are different for a youthful offender. Whether the accused gets a jury or an adult sentence, the rights of the accused for youth are different.  Experienced counsel are a must.

At WSGA we don't restrict ourselves to the legal side of your defence.  Youthful persons before the court should also have access to many social programs and services that are not well known in the community. With our extensive experience, counsel at WSGA are well placed to access all the available social services and coordinate them for your benefit.