What is the primary purpose of the Youth Criminal Justice Act?

The primary purpose of the Youth Criminal Justice Act is to provide supportive interventions and rehabilitate youth. This legislation emphasizes the need for rehabilitation over punishment, reflecting the understanding that young individuals can learn from their mistakes and change their behavior. By focusing on restorative justice approaches, the Act aims to address the underlying issues that lead to criminal behavior, promote reintegration into society, and reduce recidivism.

This approach recognizes that youth are still in a critical developmental stage and requires a justice system response that fosters growth and accountability rather than merely imposing harsh penalties. Thus, supportive interventions are designed not only to hold young offenders accountable for their actions but also to help them develop the skills and resources needed to avoid future offenses.