In this video, Matthew Eaton Kent, a criminal defense lawyer and youth justice expert, explores the measures taken by Canada’s Youth Criminal Justice System to prevent harm and trauma to young individuals. While the system aims to reduce harm, Eaton Kent acknowledges that certain aspects, such as pretrial detention or sentencing, can still negatively impact youth.
He explains that detention facilities in Canada are designed to be as supportive as possible, offering counseling services, in-house schools, and healthcare to minimize psychological harm. He also introduces the concept of “open custody,” which provides a home-like environment with restrictions but aims to reduce the stigma and trauma often associated with incarceration.
Another critical feature of the system is the emphasis on privacy. The Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) ensures that the names and records of youth offenders remain confidential, allowing them to move past their offenses without long-term stigma. Furthermore, if a youth avoids further charges before turning 18, their records are automatically sealed and do not carry over into adulthood.
Eaton Kent highlights cultural adaptations in youth courts aimed at reducing stress and anxiety for young offenders. These include informal communication by judges and prosecutors, as well as unique courtroom structures, such as circular seating arrangements in Indigenous youth courts that reflect cultural practices and create a less intimidating environment.
This video provides insightful information on the challenges and adaptations within Canada’s justice system to protect youth from harm and trauma, illustrating the system’s commitment to balancing accountability with the unique needs of young individuals.
