Extrajudicial measures mean “outside the court”. This means using community-based responses for less serious offences. The goal is to hold youth accountable while helping them learn, heal, and reintegrate into their community. These measures allow young people to take responsibility for their actions without getting a criminal record or going through the formal court process.

Different types of extrajudicial measures can be used:

• No further action: When the victim, parents, or others have already taken steps to hold the youth accountable.
• Warning: A police officer or Crown prosecutor gives a verbal warning. The youth is not arrested or brought into the court system.
• Police caution: A more formal warning, often given in writing, with parents involved.
• Referral to a community program: The youth is referred to an organization that helps them reflect on their actions and give back to the community.

All of these measures require the youth’s informed and voluntary consent.