The discussion focuses on the constitutional framework in Canada, the relevance of fundamental principles for shaping the response to juvenile delinquency, the nature and causes of juvenile delinquency, and the general principles that guide government intervention into the lives of citizens. It also analyzes the history of Canadian legislative responses to juvenile delinquents, the principles stated in the Young Offenders Act, and additional principles implicit in the law. The analysis concludes that Canada's legal responses to juvenile delinquency have changed greatly in the past century and even in the past decade and will probably continue to change. All advocates of change believe that juvenile delinquency is a serious social problem in Canada. Almost all proponents of change seem to recognize the need for a juvenile justice system that is separate and distinct from the adult system. Broad crime prevention strategies, evaluation of correctional programs, a clearer statement of sentencing objectives, and consideration to reducing to 10 years the minimum age of jurisdiction. Footnotes, table of cases, and 100 references