Juvenile Laws at Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago has undertaken significant reforms in its juvenile justice system, emphasizing rehabilitation, restorative justice, and the protection of children's rights.
⚖️ Legal Framework
Children’s Authority Act (2012): Establishes the Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (CATT), which oversees the welfare of children, including those in conflict with the law.
Children Act (2012): Defines a child as anyone under 18 and outlines procedures for handling children in need of supervision (CHINS) and those in need of care and protection.
Judge’s Rules for Children (2016): Provides guidelines for the treatment of children in the justice system, ensuring their rights are upheld during legal proceedings.
🏛 Juvenile Justice System
Children Court: Operational since February 28, 2018, the Children Court handles cases involving children accused of breaking the law, those in need of supervision, and those requiring care and protection. It also addresses drug and mental health matters related to children
Diversion Programs: The court offers various non-custodial sentencing options, including
Peer Resolution: Youth volunteers (ages 13–17) assist in recommending sanctions for minor offenses
Drug Treatment Court: Targets children with substance misuse issues, providing treatment and support
Life Skills Programs: Includes initiatives like "Life Lessons," "Imani Healing Circle," and "A Girl Like Me – Girls Circle," which aim to address behavioural issues and promote positive development
🤝 International Collaboration
Juvenile Court Project A collaboration between the Judiciary of Trinidad and Tobago, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This project aims to strengthen the juvenile court system, enhance case management, and implement restorative justice principle.
🛡 Rights and Safeguards
*Legal Representation: Under the Legal Aid and Advice Act, the Director of Legal Aid is required to provide legal representation for minors detained on suspicion of committing an offence.
*Intake Conferences: Children appearing in court must participate in intake conferences to understand the underlying causes of their behaviour and ensure their voices are head.
Trinidad and Tobago's juvenile justice system reflects a commitment to rehabilitating young offenders through restorative practices, legal safeguards, and international cooperation.
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