NCJ Number
94082
Journal
Canadian Journal of Criminology Volume: 23 Issue: 3 Dated: (July 1981) Pages: 279-289
Date Published
1981
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This paper looks at the diversion provisions of the recent Young Offenders Bill, tabled in Parliament in February.
Abstract
Looking at some British, Canadian and Quebec data on diversion practices, the author concludes that formalized diversion may increase rather than reduce social control. As a consequence, he wonders if it is wise to legislate in a way which is likely to foster the emergence of more formal diversion. If Parliament decides to go ahead with the proposed legislation, it should at least acknowledge in the law that no action may often be preferable to any court intervention or alternative measure. The need for better structuring the exercise of discretion is also stressed, in order to reduce disparities and ensure quick decision-making. (Author abstract)