As a young person accused of committing a crime, you have certain legal rights. Michelle Johal, a Brampton youth juvenile lawyer, provides a few common questions and answers to help you understand your rights as a youth.
Brampton Youth Court Lawyer | Michelle Johal
A youth who goes through the youth criminal justice system is treated differently from and an adult who goes through the adult criminal justice system. The Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) is the federal law about youth accused or found guilty of a crime. When you are accused of committing a crime while you were 12 to 17, the outcome of your case, trial or sentencing will occur under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
What happens if I turn 18 after I was charged with an offence as a youth but before my case is finished?
Even if you turn 18 before your trial or sentencing, you will be tried or sentenced under the Youth Criminal Justice Act as long as the offence you are charged with was committed before your 18th birthday.
What type of rights do I have as a youth charged with a crime?
Some of these basic rights include the right to:
- be told why you are being charged;
- talk to a youth juvenile lawyer, parent or other adult before you give a statement to police and to have them with you if you decide to give a statement;
- not answer any questions about the crime.
Does a record get erased when the young person turns 18?
This is a common misconception. When a record is erased does not have anything to do with turning eighteen. As long as the young person does not commit any more crimes, the record will become unavailable or “closed” after a period of time, either three or five years. How long they have to wait for the record “close” depends on how serious the offence was and whether the Crown proceeded by way of summary conviction or by indictment. However, if someone is convicted of a crime as an adult while their youth record is still “open” or accessible, then the youth record may be converted to an adult record. That will make it subject to the same rules and regulations as any other adult criminal record.
What impact could having a youth record have on a young person?
Having a youth record might make it difficult to get some jobs or travel to other countries. Youth record may also result in increased sentences if the young person is found guilty of a future offence whether as a youth or as an adult. Michelle Johal in Brampton is a youth juvenile lawyer with extensive experience defending youth charged with offences under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. To learn more about defending Youth offences contact Michelle Johal for a consultation at (647) 670-0116.
Michelle was outstanding from start to finish. Her strategic approach in handling my case helped me achieve my desired outcome. During my consultation with Michelle she was very thorough in explaining the process, potential outcomes and really put me at ease by managing expectations. She was also very transparent with the fees – helping me plan accordingly. With my charge withdrawn, she has been instrumental in helping me put this issue behind me. Highly recommend Ms. Johal.
Steven
I can not be more grateful and satisfied by the honesty and integrity which was shown to me by Michelle Johal. She was never quick to judge and always focused on supporting myself on winning my case. I would highly recommend hiring Michelle Johal as your Lawyer. Thank You!
F R
Michelle Johal is a fantastic lawyer. She is passionate, charismatic and most importantly dedicated to her clients and her cases. You will be in good hands with Michelle and you will feel how much she cares about your case. I highly recommend her!
Maya Shukairy
I retained Michelle Johal and she has taken care of everything from beginning to end. She was able to answer all my questions and make sure I was able to get the best possible outcome! She has been of great help to me and is highly recommended to anyone.
P Y
Michelle Johal is best lawyer.She take care of everything about your case.She dismissed all my charges of drink and drive.And also you can pay her fee in installment.Her nature is very good .She explained everything in perfect manner .I am very lucky to have this lawyer.
Amrinder Singh
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Practice Areas
Michelle Johal Practices Exclusively In The Area Of Criminal Law.
Discuss your case in confidence
It is located a short distance from the A. Grenville and William Davis Courthouse located at 7755 Hurontario in Brampton. It is located across from the Tim Horton’s on County Court Blvd, and is a large commercial building with ample parking. We can be located on the 6th floor at County Court Law Chambers.
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