|
Frequently Asked Questions |
 |
- What is the new Youth Criminal Justice
Act?
- Where are the mugshots?
- How often is court?
- How can I become a CourtWatch member?
- Does PR
CourtWatch take contributions?
On
February 4, 2002, Parliament passed Bill C-7, the Youth Criminal
Justice Act (YCIA). The new law replaces the Young Offenders Act
(YOA), and went into force on April 1, 2003.
It introduces sweeping changes to the way in which the criminal justice
system deals with young persons.
For more information, please see the Department of
Justice
website
for information on the new act.
Or view .pdf file:
YCJA
We are as frustrated as you and are continually asking the RCMP this
question. We are told they are working on 'standardizing' the system of
providing mugshots. It sounds as though they're stumped with red tape/
bureaucracy. Contact the Powell River RCMP and let them know we want
mugshots!
Provincial Criminal Court is held usually every Wednesday beginning at
9:30am. Supreme Criminal Court at
10:00am 12 months a year when scheduled.
CourtWatchers are made up of neutral, non-victim volunteers who
represent a cross section of the community. They come from a variety of backgrounds: mostly retired.
One goal is to evaluate Powell River’s justice system from the public’s
point of view. It was felt our justice system needed more input from the
community it serves. Another goal of the program is to observe that ALL
parties are treated fairly: the victim, the witness, and the defendant..
Volunteers are screened and given a trial observation session in court
with a volunteer. The background and foundation of CourtWatch is
presented, then they are instructed to maintain an impartial attitude
and not display emotions in the courtroom. They are trained in proper
courtroom etiquette, emphasizing courtesy and open-mindedness.
Throughout the period of volunteering, continuing education workshop
meetings are held. The purpose of these meetings is to reinforce the
goals of the program, to iron out the flaws, to further educate the
CourtWatchers and to share information that would improve their efforts.
Special speakers are invited to further inform the volunteers.
Contact us by
email or use the comment form if you are
interested in becoming a CourtWatch member.
Back to Top
Those of us involved in non-profit organizations know the vital role
that contributors play in keeping our programs running smoothly and
successfully. If you are interested in donating to the cause of PR
CourtWatch contact us via
email or send your contribution to:
Powell River Court Watch
Town Centre Mall Unit #65
7100 Alberni Street
Powell River, BC V8A5K9
Back to Top |
