Youth and the Law

FAQ

It is a common misconception that a youth record is erased or closed when you turn 18.   Under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, a youth court record is generally closed after a 3-5 year “clean period” which begins when you have completed everything that was required in your sentence.  Your sentence includes any periods of probation or incarceration, any fines or community service.  A clean period is the time after completion of your sentence, during which you have no new offences or breaches of your probation.    

Disclaimer: Please note that our website contains general information about the law. This is not a complete statement of the law on particular topics. We try to update our publications often, but laws change frequently so it is important for you to check to make sure the information is up to date.  The information in our publications is not a substitute for legal advice. To receive legal advice about your specific situation, you need to speak to a lawyer.