YJC’s are actually a group meeting where the youth, the victim and trained members of the community each have the opportunity to let the others know about the crime, what happened, and how it affected them.  Then they all work together to come up with ways that the youth can make things better.  This could mean paying back money or doing work for the victim.  Or this could mean attending a program or counseling or getting involved in the community in a positive way.  The youth then has a set length of time to complete these tasks and report back.  If all tasks were done, then the original charge is dropped.  If they are not, then the matter goes back to the Police or Crown Attorney, and they may proceed with the original charge.

A youth can be given the opportunity to participate in a YJC through pre-charge diversion (called Extrajudicial Measures) or through post-charge diversion (called Extrajudicial Sanctions).

Either way, the youth must admit responsibility for the crime and be willing to participate in the program.  (They will be reminded of their right to consult with a lawyer before making the decision).
 
Once the youth agrees, our Youth Justice Committee Coordinator will meet with the youth.  He will sit down with the youth and their parent or guardian to explain the process and what the meeting will look.  He will also meet with the victim to explain the process and what the meeting will look like.  He will also arrange the meeting to be in their home community and arrange transportation for anyone who needs it to get the meeting.