This analysis of the juvenile codes and juvenile justice systems in Canada and France concludes that Canada has permitted a cumbersome and insensitive system to evolve and has tried to correct weaknesses with detailed, but ineffective legislation such as the Young Offenders Act. In contrast, juvenile justice is handled in France through a less formal and less adversarial system. Recommended changes in the Canadian system include establishing a public defender, who might alternate periodically with the role of prosecutor and the creation of a social-service judge and who would have all a judge's power except the power to punish or restrict the liberty of young people. These approaches would allow the juvenile justice and the talented people who currently work in it to become more effective. 26 references