What is the purpose of a YCJA Conference?

The primary purpose of a YCJA (Youth Criminal Justice Act) Conference is to facilitate the reintegration of the young person into society. This approach emphasizes understanding the youth's situation and behavior in a broader context, promoting restoration rather than merely applying punitive measures. The conference encourages collaboration among various stakeholders, including the youth, their family, victims, and community members, to develop constructive solutions that address the underlying issues contributing to the youth's behavior and support their reintegration.

By focusing on rehabilitation and support, the YCJA promotes positive outcomes for young offenders, helping them to understand the consequences of their actions and providing them with the tools necessary for making better choices in the future. This aligns with the overall principles of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, which aims to balance the interests of rehabilitation with societal safety.