If you are under the age of eighteen years old, the Youth Criminal Justice Act http://www.canlii.org/en/ca/laws/stat/sc-2002-c-1/latest/sc-2002-c-1.html, governs your case. There are special provisions and procedures that apply to individuals charged under this Act, that affect everything from bail hearings to sentencing.
Brian Ross is a founding partner at Canada’s largest criminal Law firm, Rusonik, O’Connor, Ross, Gorham & Angelini, LLP.
This area of law is unique and complex. Contrary to what many believe, those under eighteen are still required to obey the same laws as adults. All criminal offences are enumerated in the Criminal Code of Canada: http://www.canlii.org/en/ca/laws/stat/rsc-1985-c-c-46/latest/rsc-1985-c-c-46.html. Some of the differences between how a case will proceed against a “youth” and an “adult” include:
The bail hearing
The way a statement is taken by the police
The admissibility of any statement made
The procedure at trial Sentencing procedures
Appellate routes
I represent all cases under the Youth Criminal Justice Act and I have successfully defended people against youth charges numerous times – please refer to my Recent Successes page.
Again, the foregoing is only a summary. It is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. For a free consultation to discuss your case, please call me at (416) 658-5855.
RECENT SUCCESSES
Youth Court Cases
Charter application was successful and all charges dismissed.
R. v. T.P.
Client charged with Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking and Failing to Comply with Probation. Police saw T.P. riding his bicycle at night time and believed that he was subject to Probation with a condition that he could not be out at that time without certain permission. The police stopped T.P. and investigated him. They subsequently arrested him for breaching his probation and upon arrest, located a quantity of cocaine. I argued that the police violated his Charter rights and had no grounds to stop, detain, question, or search him.
Charge withdrawn after successful meeting with the Crown Attorney
R. v. S.C.
Client charged with Assault with Weapon. It was alleged that while at school, client brandished a knife and assaulted a fellow student.
Charges withdrawn after discussions with the Crown Attorney.
R. v. A.M.
Client charged with Robbery and Possession of Prohibited Weapon. It was alleged that while at school, the client cornered the complainant in the stairwell, brandished a knife, and took the complainant’s property.
Brian Ross is professional, straightforward, and honest. After we reviewed my case I didn't have high hopes for a positive outcome because there really wasn't much for him to work with. However, come court date, charges were withdrawn!! It had all happened so fast. I am so grateful for Brian Ross and his team. He didn't give up on my case and he definitely made lemonade out of like a 1/4 of a lemon. I would 100% use their services again - hopefully I won't have too.
Kate Rice
Money well spent! With all the issues with my case Brian gave me hope. I would definitely recommend spending the cash to hire Brian as he is an amazing lawyer. Watching him work I knew I had great chances. I feel like I have a new lease of life now with this behind me. All charges dropped which I could not imagine. Thank you to you and your team on helping me with this. Best lawyer in the city!!!
Jan Lane
I had a great experience hiring Brian for my case. From the beginning he was very direct and honest. He was confident in his prediction and his prediction was correct. Brian did an incredible job. He is highly knowledgeable in his field. He was thorough and very well experienced. I do highly recommend Brian!!
Anita Wong
As a young professional, the weight of a conviction was staggering, and would have greatly affected my ability to work in my chosen profession. Hiring Mr. Ross was the best way to guarantee against such effects. Throughout, Brian was present, helpful, positive, and supportive; hard-working and diligent. It was truly a pleasure to work with him, and a relief to get the call that Mr. Ross had accomplished what he initially set out to do. Consider this a sincere “Thank You” and commendation.
Kylie S
Nominated in 2023 for the Best Lawyers Award in Criminal Law
Candidates who are nominated for consideration are voted on by currently recognized lawyers working in the same practice area and located in the same geographic region. Our awards and recognitions are based purely on the feedback we receive from these top lawyers.
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