What is the legal system that addresses offenses committed by individuals under the age of eighteen?

The Youth Criminal Justice system specifically addresses offenses committed by individuals under the age of eighteen, distinguishing it from systems designed for adults. This legal framework emphasizes rehabilitating youth rather than solely punishing them, reflecting a recognition that minors have a different capacity for understanding their actions and a greater potential for reform.

This system operates under principles that aim to balance accountability with the need for young offenders to be given a chance to change. The Youth Criminal Justice Act in Canada outlines processes, sanctions, and support mechanisms that consider the developmental stage of young offenders while also protecting public safety.

The other choices relate to different aspects of law: the Adult Criminal Justice system governs offenses committed by adults, Family Law Court typically deals with matters such as custody and divorce, and the Child Welfare System focuses on the care and protection of children rather than on criminal behavior. Therefore, the distinctive focus on youthful offenders and the goal of rehabilitation make the Youth Criminal Justice system the appropriate answer for this question.