The committee was informed by the department that youth always have the right to consult with legal counsel before deciding whether to appear before a youth justice committee or a court of law. This led committee to question whether youth have adequate access to legal aid.
The committee is waiting for a formal response from the department on whether or not legal aid is available to youth who become involved in the youth justice system and the option of extrajudicial measures.
The committee is seeking assurance from the department that youth have adequate access to legal aid at any stage of proceedings, and regardless of whether extrajudicial measures are invoked.