What kinds of offenses does the Young Offenders Act cover?

The Young Offenders Act is specifically designed to handle cases involving young individuals, typically those between the ages of 12 and 17, who commit offenses. The Act addresses various types of conduct but primarily focuses on summary offenses and those indictable offenses that can be dealt with summarily.

Summary offenses are generally less serious and involve streamlined legal processes, while indictable offenses that can be dealt with summarily allow for a more flexible approach to serious crimes, permitting cases to be handled in a manner similar to summary offenses in certain circumstances. This framework ensures that young offenders are treated appropriately, balancing accountability with the recognition of their developmental needs and potential for rehabilitation.

In contrast, the options that claim to cover all criminal offenses or only serious violent crimes do not align with the specific focus and intention of the Young Offenders Act. Similarly, limiting the Act exclusively to traffic offenses fails to encompass the broader range of offenses that young individuals may commit, which the Act is designed to address. Thus, the correct choice reflects the Act's scope as it pertains to the types of offenses eligible for consideration under its provisions.