Introduction to the Under 18 Handbook

Introduction to the Under 18 Handbook

Persons under the age of 18 have a special place in our society. As members of the whole society, they are governed by most of the laws that everyone else lives with. But because they are not adults, there are other distinct laws that apply only to people under 18.

We have written this handbook principally for people between the ages of 12 and 18. It is intended to introduce various laws and community resources that young persons can use. While many laws discussed or referred to are common to all Canadians, there is specific emphasis on those rules that affect only youth under 18.

We have also written this handbook for teachers and others who work with youth in the community. We hope that having access to this handbook will be helpful to you and the young people with whom you come into contact.

Using this Handbook

This handbook has been developed using a question and answer format. We have attempted to anticipate questions a person between the ages of 12 and 18 might have within the various areas of law. The Table of Contents is organized under subject headings and includes the page number where each subject can be found. Whenever possible, community resources have been included in the appropriate section of the handbook. You will also find that community resources are listed by subject heading at the back of the handbook. It is our hope that the material provided under each heading can stand on its own and be reproduced as a handout for your students or clients, if desired.

As changes in the law or community resources develop, we will provide replacement pages so that the information remains current, as much as possible.