When Your Child Is in Trouble, You're Not Alone

Youth Offences Lawyer in Brampton

You never expect to get a call saying your child’s been charged with a crime. It hits hard. Confusion, fear, even guilt. Maybe they got caught up in a bad moment—skipped school, shoplifted on a dare, or got into a fight. It doesn’t make them a criminal. It means they need help. You’re not expected to face this alone. With the right youth offences lawyer, you can protect your child’s future and help them find their way back.

Understanding the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA)

If your child is between 12 and 17 years old, the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) applies. It’s a different set of rules from the adult system. Why? Because young people aren’t just small adults—they’re still growing, still learning, and yes, still making mistakes.

The YCJA focuses on three things:

  • Rehabilitation: Helping youth get the support they need.
  • Accountability: Making sure they take responsibility in a fair way.
  • Reintegration: Guiding them back into the community.

So whether your child was caught vandalising a wall or involved in something more serious, the law looks at the whole picture. Their age. Their past. Their future.

Key Principles That Shape Every Youth Case

When handling youth cases, the justice system (and any good criminal defence lawyer) considers:
  • Proportional response: The punishment must match the offence—and a 13-year-old stealing a candy bar shouldn’t be treated like a hardened criminal.
  • Timely action: Delays can do more harm than good. Quick resolutions matter.
  • Meaningful consequences: Designed to teach, not destroy.
  • Avoiding court when possible: Programs and community solutions often work better than a trial.

Types of Youth Offences

Youth offences in Brampton—and across Canada—range from minor slip-ups to serious incidents. Here’s what that might look like:
  • Minor Offences: Like breaking curfew, trespassing, or shoplifting. These might be handled outside court.
  • Moderate Offences: Such as carrying a weapon at school or joyriding. Serious, but still open to alternative options.
  • Violent Offences: If a school fight escalates or threats are made. These require careful legal attention.
  • Serious Violent Offences: Rare, but possible. Gang-related activity or aggravated assault. The stakes are higher—but even here, rehabilitation remains a focus.

The Legal Process for Youth Offences

Here’s what to expect if your child is facing charges:

1. Police Involvement: This might happen at school, at home, or in the community. Your child may be scared and unsure of their rights.

Remember:

  • They have the right to remain silent.
  • They have the right to speak with a lawyer.
  • You, as a parent or guardian, have the right to be informed.

2. Court Proceedings: Youth court isn’t as formal as adult court, but it can still feel overwhelming. You’ll receive what’s called disclosure—the Crown’s evidence. That might include police reports, video, or witness statements. As your youth offences lawyer, I walk you through everything. We sit together. We talk it through. Step by step.

3. Sentencing Options (If Found Guilty) The focus remains on growth—not punishment. Possible outcomes include:

  • Reprimand: A stern warning from the judge.
  • Discharge: Your child completes conditions, and the charge disappears.
  • Probation: Live at home with rules and regular check-ins.
  • Restitution: Pay for or fix what was damaged.
  • Deferred Custody: Like house arrest—strict but still at home.
  • Open/Secure Custody: Youth jail, often with education or counselling programs.
  • Extrajudicial Sanctions (EJS): For first-time or less serious offences. These programs—volunteering, apology letters, therapy—can keep your child out of court altogether.

Why You Need a Young Offenders Lawyer in Brampton

The youth justice system isn’t just about law—it’s about people. Your child deserves a voice, and you deserve support.

Here’s how I help:

  • I protect your child’s rights from the very first interaction with police.
  • I explain the process in plain language, so you’re never left guessing.
  • I advocate for outcomes that support healing—not punishment for punishment’s sake.
  • I support your family through every stage. Legal stuff can be scary, but I’m with you all the way.

My Approach: Calm, Clear, and Committed

I’ve spent over 30 years helping families in Brampton and Peel Region get through some of their darkest days. I treat every client—especially young ones—as individuals, not case numbers.
  • I speak like a real person—not in legal jargon.
  • I give you the truth—even when it’s hard to hear.
  • I answer your calls and texts—because waiting in silence only adds to the stress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What should I do if my child is arrested?
Stay calm and make sure your child knows they have the right to remain silent and to speak with a lawyer. Do not let them answer police questions until legal advice is given. Call a youth offences lawyer right away.
Yes, but your child still has the right to speak with a lawyer and to contact a parent or guardian. The police must explain these rights in a way your child can understand.
Not always. Many youth cases—especially first-time or minor offences—can be resolved with options that don’t leave a permanent criminal record, like extrajudicial measures or discharges.
Yes. In less serious cases, especially for first offences, the court might offer diversion programs or community-based alternatives that skip formal court appearances.
Yes, but it’s rare. The youth system prefers rehabilitation. Jail is usually considered a last resort, and only in more serious or repeat cases. Even then, youth custody is different from adult jail and includes support programs.
It depends on the charge and the complexity of the case. Simple cases may resolve within a few months. More serious matters may take longer, but youth cases are generally handled faster than adult cases to avoid delay-related harm.
The court takes violence seriously, but it still looks at your child’s age, history, and potential for change. A skilled criminal defence lawyer can advocate for alternatives to custody and focus on rehabilitation.
Yes. A criminal charge can impact school discipline or future applications. It might also create issues with travel—especially to the U.S. That’s why early legal support is so important.

Take the First Step Now

Your child’s future is too important to leave to chance. Early action can open up more options—and lead to better outcomes. Let’s work together to give your child the second chance they deserve.
Contact Gary Batasar