NCJ Number
94362
Journal
Canadian Journal of Criminology Volume: 26 Issue: 2 Dated: (April 1984) Pages: 217-230
Date Published
1984
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses several unresolved issues in the movement for juvenile diversion in Canada.
Abstract
The intent of diversion is to develop community-based procedures as alternatives to court processing of certain types of juvenile offenders. Provisions for juvenile diversion are included in the Young Offenders Act. A number of issues have been identified for further study. A persistent criticism is that due process rights are violated by coercing the youth's participation in diversion. However, at the operational level, most juvenile diversion programs have procedural safeguards which seem to protect offenders' rights. Adequate involvement of victims has been difficult to secure and must be encouraged. Because one of the ultimate objectives of diversion is to influence community attitudes toward troublesome youth behavior, it is important to increase community support for the programs. Additional resources must be provided to handle larger caseloads and to provide support services. Also, law enforcement and judicial personnel must be adequately prepared for the increased use of diversion, and their support must be obtained. The next few years will be critical in determining whether juvenile diversion will become a fully institutionalized part of the juvenile justice system. References are appended.