Summary
"Legal issues related to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) have been explored recently by
a number of authors. This discussion paper canvases issues specifically related to FASD and
the youth criminal justice system. Where available, court decisions that have addressed these
issues are reviewed. Issues are explored under six subject headings: (I) the FASD construct; (II) fitness
to stand trial; (III) criminal intent; (IV) proportionality of youth court outcomes; (V) sentencing; and
(VI) bridging with social services."--Page i.
Contents
1. The FASD construct -- 2. Fitness to stand trial -- 3. Criminal intent -- 3.1. The defence of mental disorder -- 3.2. General intent -- 3.3. Specific intent -- 3.4. Criminal negligence -- 4. Proportionality -- 4.1. Proportionality and provincial review board dispositions -- 4.2. Chronic unfitness -- 4.3. Capping provisions -- 4.4. Duty to provide treatment -- 4.5. Proportionality and sentencing -- 5. Sentencing -- 5.1. Identification of FASD at sentencing -- 5.2. FASD as an aggravating and mitigating factor at sentencing -- 5.3. Sentencing options under the YCJA -- 6. Bridging with social services -- 7. For discussion.