ARCHIVED VIDEO STREAM

This is the archived version of a program presented on September 8, 2011.  To order this format please click on the "REGISTER NOW" button.  

Judges, Crown Attorneys and defence counsel working in youth court all agree the 2003 passage of the Youth Criminal Justice Act brought about dramatic changes to the youth criminal justice system. And after almost a decade, the times they are a changin'(again). What does the anticipated passage of Sebastien's Law mean for youth criminal justice system participants? How are the proposed amendments going to affect what is already a complex and challenging area of law?

A lively debate and discussion on the bill's implications, including significant changes to the following aspects of the YCJA:

• The statute's underlying principles;
• Judicial interim release (bail);
• Publication bans;
• Classification of offences as "violent", "serious" and "serious violent";
• Navigating new youth sentencing principles;
• Revisions to adult sentencing regime; and
• Placement hearings.

With a panel comprised of a sitting judge of the Ontario Court of Justice, as well as an Assistant Crown Attorney and a criminal defence lawyer, participants are sure to gain valuable insight into what may lie ahead for the future of the youth criminal justice system.

MODERATOR:
Suhail Akhtar, Assistant Crown Attorney, Ministry of the Attorney General

PANELISTS:
The Honourable Justice Miriam Bloomenfeld, Ontario Court of Justice
Scott Bergman, Cooper & Sandler LLP
Brock Jones, Assistant Crown Attorney, Ministry of the Attorney General