Ocj Courts Courses

OCJ Courts are Ontario's specialized courts providing accessible justice and dedicated to finding appropriate, timely and effective pathways for youth aged 12-17 who have come into conflict with the law. The OCJ Courts, officially known as the Ontario Court of Justice (Provincial Offences), are part of the Superior Court of Justice and are legislated under the Ontario Court of Justice Act. OCJ Courts serve as an alternative to traditional criminal court procedures. Cases concerning youths between the ages of 12 and 17 are all seen at OCJ Courts. These courts offer an informal, therapeutic approach that looks to rehabilitate and protect youth with focus on the best interests of the young person. The court hears offences that appear in Ontario’s Criminal Code, as well as the Provincial Offences Act and other laws of Ontario. Youth who appear before the OCJ Court can be represented by a lawyer or may enter a guilty plea without a lawyer’s presence. Other affirmatives include a case contract, programs, or referrals to community services. The court emphasizes diversion of youth from the criminal justice system, with the intention of rehabilitating and rectifying the offending behaviour, ultimately leading to restorative justice. The OCJ Courts are available throughout Ontario and provide important services to the province's youth. They prioritize rehabilitation, healing, and guidance for minors as an alternative to the more formal criminal justice proceedings available from traditional criminal courts. There are also International OCJ Courts in Canada, providing both specialized and general court services.