FOR PRACTITIONERS:
Resources for professionals working in youth justice
YAO develops information and tools designed for the specific roles and responsibilities of judges, Crown prosecutors, defence lawyers, and allied professionals working with youth in the justice system.
JUDGES
Judicial authority and Section 19
Section 19 gives judges direct authority to convene — or cause to be convened — a conference at any point in a proceeding. The conference can be a valuable source of information when the court is weighing sentencing options, considering conditions, or reviewing an existing order.
YAO's resources for the judiciary include plain-language summaries of the provision, an overview of how conferences have been used in Canadian case law, and guidance on how conference reports can be integrated into the sentencing record.
The resources are designed to be practical — not prescriptive. YAO does not advocate for a particular sentencing outcome, but for informed use of an available tool.
CROWN PROSECUTORS
Conferencing and Prosecutorial Discretion
Crown prosecutors play a central role in determining whether a conference may be appropriate — particularly in matters involving extrajudicial measures or where diversion is under consideration. Understanding when to request, support, or participate in a Section 19 Conference is part of a thoughtful approach to youth prosecution.
YAO resources for Crown prosecutors outline the legal framework, describe typical conference formats, and offer guidance on how conference outcomes can inform prosecutorial decision-making without compromising the integrity of the process.
DEFENCE LAWYERS
Advocating for a Conference on Behalf of Your Client
For defence counsel, a Section 19 Conference can be a meaningful opportunity to ensure that a young person's full circumstances — including developmental history, family situation, mental health needs, and community supports — are made available to the court before a decision is reached.
YAO provides resources to help defence lawyers understand the procedural basis for requesting a conference, frame such a request effectively, and advise their clients about what a conference involves and what it is not.
Knowing how to present the case for a conference is as important as understanding the provision itself.
SOCIAL WORKERS AND YOUTH WORKERS
Your Role in the Conference Process
Social workers, youth workers, and mental health professionals are often among the most valuable participants in a Section 19 Conference. Their knowledge of a young person's history, supports, and needs can be critical to the quality of advice provided to the decision-maker.
YAO resources help allied professionals understand the purpose of conferencing, how their participation contributes to the process, and how to communicate relevant information effectively within the conference format.
FAMILIES AND CAREGIVERS
Understanding the Conference and Your Place In It
Section 19 Conferences often include family members and caregivers as participants. Families bring knowledge of a young person that no professional record can fully capture — and their involvement is recognized under the YCJA as an important part of a youth-centred approach.
What To Expect: The process is designed to help ensure decisions are informed and supportive.
During the conference:
– Participants discuss the young person’s circumstances
– Information may be shared about available supports
– Recommendations may be developed
YAO is developing plain-language resources to help families understand what a conference is, what to expect, and how they can contribute meaningfully to the process.