NCJ Number
80061
Date Published
1981
Length
298 pages
Annotation
The history and nature of Canadian law and the legal system as they affect children are discussed.
Abstract
Following a discussion of the evolving status of children in society and how children are affected by the legal system, problems which arise when families break up (custody, access, and support) are considered. A discussion of child protection legislation -- laws designed to help children who have been neglected or abused -- covers child protection authorities, reporting child abuse, the child protection proceeding, the child in care, medical treatment, alternatives to the protection proceeding, and the abusing parent. The chapter on adoption focuses on the adoption procedure and the effects of adoption. Components of the Canadian Juvenile Delinquents Act are also examined, with attention given to the nature and causes of delinquency, the child before the trial, the delinquency hearing, and new directions in juvenile justice. The property and civil rights of children are also considered, followed by a discussion designed to assist the professional in dealing with children. The discussion focuses on an explanation of the laws of evidence, which may be important if the professional is required to testify in court, and professional obligations. The appendix discusses how to locate the appropriate statutes and cases. The book is intended as a reference work for the practicing professional and as a community college textbook. It is also appropriate for some university courses and inservice training programs. A glossary is included.