The Role of Counsel in the Youth Criminal Justice Act

Authors

  • Larry C. Wilson

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29173/alr1355

Abstract

The proper role of counsel in youth court has always been somewhat uncertain. Historically, there was resistance to the idea of active participation by counsel. This began to change with the introduction of the Young Offenders Act and the process continues with the Youth Criminal Justice Act Counsel are under a legislated and ethical duly to take instructions from their clients and advocate their behalf in the same fashion as with adult clients. However, the Youth Criminal Justice Act does not address two fundamental issues: I) who pays for the provision of legal services; and 2) from whom does counsel receive instructions. These unanswered questions, and the complex nature of the legislation, further complicate the role of counsel in youth court.

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Published

2003-04-01

Issue

Section

Forum: The Youth Criminal Justice Act