Canada differs from the U.S. in terms of its geography, featuring a large land mass and sparse population, particularly in the northern and rural areas, and the conflict that often surrounds indigenous and immigrant groups. In Canada, the violent crime rate has increased over 50 percent during the past 10 years, while property crimes increased only by 6 percent. The Constitution Act, 1867, the Criminal Code, and the Young Offenders' Act provide the framework for the criminal justice system; the latter regulates youth court jurisdiction, police processing of juvenile delinquents, court appearances, and youth court dispositions. Juvenile offenders in Canada are most often charged with breaking and entering and minor thefts; only about 10 percent were charged with violent crimes. The primary concerns in the youth crime area today are urban crime, ethnic youth gangs, and aboriginal youth offenders. Two concepts upon which future research should be based include the vulnerability of youths and the viability of communities. 1 table, 4 figures, 4 notes, and 59 references