Commentary on the Implications of the Young Offenders Act for Treatment and Rehabilitation (From Learning Disabilities and the Young Offender: Arrest to Disposition, P 39-56, 1986, Howard Stutt, ed. -- See NCJ-108409)

• NCJ Number: 108413
• Author(s): M A Kirvan
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 18 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; Canadian Assoc for Children and Adults With Learning Disabilities
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Description
• Language: English
• Country: Canada
• Note: For microfiche, see NCJ-108409.

Annotation

This paper discusses the Young Offenders Act, which represents a shift in philosophy from a treatment-oriented approach to offenders to a rights-responsibility model.

Abstract

Section 1 outlines the philosophy of the Act and references provisions and jurisprudence which serve to illustrate its fundamental principles. Section 2 addresses the Act's implications for treatment and rehabilitation by focusing on three areas of particular concern where young persons who come into conflict with the law suffer from a learning disability: identification of a learning disability, procedural fairness, and meaningful intervention where a young person has accepted responsibility for a criminal act or has been found guilty. Within each area, provisions of the Act which specifically relate to the identification and manner of intervention for young persons with special needs are highlighted. Attention is drawn to the opportunities to develop good practice as the law is implemented, and to the team approach to be used in these situations. Issues and concerns which impede effective implementation are raised. 2 footnotes.