Alberta Grade 9 Social Studies Chapter 2: Canada's Justice System and the YCJA

Flashcards covering Grade 9 Social Studies Chapter 2 on Canada's Justice System, the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA), jury responsibilities, advocacy societies, and Aboriginal restorative justice.

What is the definition of "fair and equitable" regarding laws?

Laws that apply to everyone but take into account everyone's circumstances, meaning they should be fair, reasonable, and treat people equally.

What is the definition of justice?

The application of laws.

What constitutes the justice system?

The institutions that enforce and apply laws.

What is the main objective of Canada's justice system?

To maintain peace and order in society, protect people's rights, and ensure justice is served.

What five key goals does Canada's justice system try to accomplish?

1. Protect society
2. Treat people fairly
3. Hold people accountable for their actions
4. Rehabilitate offenders
5. Prevent future crimes

What is the definition of rehabilitation?

To instill good behaviours.

What is the definition of reintegration?

To make part of again.

What is an advocacy group in the context of the justice system?

A group of people who help the accused go through court by standing up for and assisting that person.

Who does the Elizabeth Fry Society primarily help?

Women and girls who are involved in, or at risk of becoming involved in, the criminal justice system.

What are the focus areas and target group of the John Howard Society?

It works with anyone involved in crime, addresses the causes of crime, and educates the public about the justice system.

What is a Youth Justice Committee?

A group of people from the community that work with the youth, in order to reach fair consequences.

What is a Sentencing Circle?

An Aboriginal tradition based on a healing circle, where important people in the community work together to reach a sentence that would best benefit the youth.

What is the primary key to the First Nations Elders' approach to justice?

Healing and restoring balance within the individual, the victim, and the community.

Do First Nations Elders believe a young offender should be integrated back into the community right away?

No. They believe the person should take responsibility, make things right, and go through a healing process before being fully reintegrated into the community.

What age range is governed by the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA)?

$12$ and $17$ years old, inclusive.

In what year was the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) implemented?

$$2003.$$

At what age can a youth be eligible to receive an adult sentence?

$14$ years old or older, in exceptional cases, if the legal requirements are met.

What are the four factors that determine the consequences given to a young offender?

1. Attitude of the offender
2. Circumstances of the crime
3. History of the offender
4. Severity (seriousness) of the crime

What two factors do police consider before giving a consequence to a young offender?

The seriousness of the crime and the youth's previous criminal record (past offences).

Why did Parliament pass the Youth Criminal Justice Act?

To create a separate justice system for young people that focuses on rehabilitation, preventing future crimes, accountability, and helping youth become responsible members of society.

How were young offenders treated under the Young Offenders' Act prior to the YCJA?

The system relied more heavily on punishment and incarceration; many young offenders were treated more like adults rather than focusing as much on rehabilitation and reintegration.

When can the media legally publish a young offender's name?

Generally, when the youth receives an adult sentence, or under limited exceptions such as when a court authorizes publication to help find a dangerous youth.

What are an employer's obligations regarding jury duty, and how much does Alberta pay selected jurors?

An employer must allow time off to attend jury duty but does not generally have to pay regular wages; Alberta pays selected jurors $\$50$ per day.

What are the valid reasons for being excused from jury duty?

1. You have a serious health condition.
2. Jury duty would cause severe hardship.
3. You have important responsibilities that cannot be postponed.
4. You are $65$ years old or older.
5. You have served on a jury within the previous two years.
6. Your religious beliefs prevent you from serving.

What roles do the jury and the judge play during a trial?

The jury listens to the evidence and decides whether the accused is guilty or not guilty; the judge explains and applies the law.

What does it mean to sequester a jury?

To remove them from contact.

What is the distinction between defence and prosecution?

Defence is evidence that proves someone is innocent, whereas prosecution is evidence that proves someone is guilty.

What do citizens influence when sharing their opinions with lawmakers and understanding the opinions of others?

Public policy (government decisions and laws).