Canada’s youth criminal justice system is designed to prioritize support, rehabilitation, and minimizing the harm caused by judicial interventions. In this video series, Brian Scully, retired judge of the Ontario Court of Justice and a longtime advocate for Indigenous youth, explores the various aspects of this system through decades of experience—from its legal history and evolution to the role of psychological assessments, alternatives to detention, judicial decision-making, and case management in specialized youth courts.
These videos illustrate how Canada’s youth justice system strives to offer young people a second chance through restorative justice, psychological and social support, and alternative sentencing. If you’re interested in social justice, children’s rights, and innovative approaches to justice, don’t miss this series.
Overview: The Youth Criminal Justice System in Canada
This video offers a comprehensive look at Canada’s youth criminal justice system. Brian Scully, retired judge of the Ontario Court of Justice and a dedicated advocate for Indigenous youth, traces the system’s evolution from the Juvenile Delinquents Act to the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA). He discusses the system’s ongoing challenges and the importance of rehabilitation and protecting the rights of young people.
If you’re interested in social justice and child rights, this is a must-watch.
Psychological Assessments of Youth in Conflict with the Law in Canada
This video explores the vital role that psychological and psychoeducational assessments play in Canada’s youth criminal justice system. Brian Scully, retired judge of the Ontario Court of Justice, explains how these assessments help identify learning and emotional challenges faced by young people and contribute to providing the necessary support.
Through the story of a 16-year-old whose life changed after receiving proper support, Judge Scully highlights the impact of this approach. He also emphasizes the importance of protecting youth privacy and ensuring that their records are cleared after a certain period.
Watch this video to better understand the supportive and rehabilitative role of justice in the lives of young people.
Arrest, Detention, and Diversion in the Youth Criminal Justice System
This video examines the importance of minimizing unnecessary detention in Canada’s youth criminal justice system. Brian Scully, retired judge of the Ontario Court of Justice, explains how the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) emphasizes diversion from formal judicial processes and promotes restorative justice. Rather than focusing on traditional punishment, the system prioritizes rehabilitation and support for young people.
Judge Scully shares a compelling case in which two groups of youth resolved their conflict through dialogue and mediation instead of facing punitive measures—demonstrating the power of alternative approaches in achieving meaningful outcomes.
If you’re interested in the impact of restorative and rehabilitative methods in youth justice, don’t miss this video.
Decision-Making, Sentencing, and Enforcement Methods in Youth Courts
This video explores the principles behind sentencing in Canada’s youth criminal justice system. Brian Scully, retired judge of the Ontario Court of Justice, explains how the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) focuses on rehabilitation and support rather than harsh punishment, offering young people meaningful opportunities for reform and reintegration into society.
He shares examples of creative sentencing that allow youth to complete their education or gain job skills, highlighting how such approaches can lead to long-term positive outcomes.
If you’re interested in innovative youth justice practices and the protection of young people’s rights, be sure to watch this video.
Case Management Methods in Youth Courts
This video examines case management strategies and the role of specialized courts in Canada’s youth criminal justice system. Brian Scully, retired judge of the Ontario Court of Justice, explains how Indigenous courts and mental health courts offer new opportunities for youth through therapeutic and culturally grounded programs.
He shares the story of a judge who, through effective case management, helped a young woman regain custody of her child—demonstrating the profound impact of restorative and supportive approaches.
If you’re interested in the role of restorative justice and specialized support systems in youth courts, don’t miss this video.
