The Youth Justice Committee is a group of volunteers who meet to help offenders make restitution for a crime or injury that has taken place. The Committee uses a restorative approach to justice in which the offender makes restitution to their victim, enabling healing and reparation for individuals and communities.

A young person, before participating in this voluntary program, must be advised of the right to be represented by counsel and be given the opportunity to consult with counsel.

After a youth has been referred to this program by the Crown, the youth and their parent, or guardian will attend a Youth Justice Committee meeting with the program coordinator, the trained community volunteer(s) and the person(s) harmed by the young person's actions. As a group, they will discuss measures to be carried out by the youth that are fair and demonstrate that the person who carried out the offence is taking proportionate accountability for their offence.

Measures may include an apology, community service, compensation or restitution, voluntary participation in a counseling program, such as anger management sessions, and doing tasks for the victim. The measures will be flexible and respond to the needs of the young person, parent(s) (or legal guardian(s) or responsible adult known to the young person), victim and community and appropriate to the offence and the circumstances of the offender. These measures may also include input from the victim.

The young person signs an agreement with the Youth Justice Committee to carry out the measures. The Committee monitors the completion of these measures and reports back to the Police/Crown/referrals source.

Eligibility
Youth between 12 and 18, charged with a low risk offence, may be referred for diversion. Young persons must be prepared to be accountable for their actions and agree to carry out measures instead of going through the formal court system. Offenders (usually first time but not always) charged with minor offences are eligible.

Is there a cost for this program?
There is no cost for this program.

How do I access this program?
The Police, Crown, or Probation can refer youth to REACH for Diversion (where they may be directed to the Youth Justice Committee Program), or they can refer youth directly to REACH.

How do I learn more about Youth Justice Committees in Ontario?
You can visit the following websites:

Youth Justice Committees in Ontario

Haldimand-Norfolk REACH is a member of the Ontario Community Justice Association, an affiliation of agencies facilitating community justice options in the Province of Ontario

Youth Criminal Justice Act