The John Howard Society of Alberta is a non-profit agency concerned with issues of crime and its prevention. The organization takes its name and spirit from the 18th century humanitarian John Howard, whose name has become a symbol of humane consideration for prisoners. The John Howard Society of Alberta was incorporated in 1949. In addition to the Provincial Office, the organization in Alberta today consists of six separately incorporated local John Howard Societies.
We believe that crime prevention is as much the responsibility of the community as it is of government. Through involvement with the John Howard Society, as members or volunteers, people in the community play an active role in the criminal justice process by providing programs for offenders and their families, ex-offenders, young persons and the public.
The John Howard Society gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Alberta Law Foundation for the production of this Handbook. We also acknowledge the Alberta Solicitor General Department, the Edmonton Police Services, the Youth Criminal Defence Office and Justice Canada for their information and advice. Finally, we would like to thank the initial researcher and writer of the original document and the staff of the Alberta based John Howard Societies for their input on revisions in 2007.
This document is a summary of the content and administration of the Youth Criminal Justice Act in Alberta at the time of writing. Changes may occur in the Act itself or the choices of the Province of Alberta in administering the Act. This Handbook is meant as summary information only and is NOT legal advice. This Handbook includes plain language descriptions of the Act. If detail is essential, please consult the Youth Criminal Justice Act itself.
Copyright © 2002, 2007
THE JOHN HOWARD SOCIETY OF ALBERTA