Child Victims in Canada’s Justice System is a thoroughly researched resource that will be useful for anyone working with or establishing public policy with respect to children who have experienced sexual abuse. A reference document, a training tool, and a guide for developing policies and procedures, it will be beneficial to child protection workers, police officers, Crown Attorneys, lawyers, judges, physicians, elementary and secondary school teachers, college and university professors, childcare workers, mental health clinicians, victims’ advocates, public health personnel, and government policy makers. It is a valuable guide for communities wishing to better prevent and detect crimes against children, build victim assistance programs and child advocacy centres, and ensure effective response and treatment systems for children. Child Victims in Canada’s Justice System responds to public concern regarding crimes against children, the role of the judiciary, and the rights of child victims.

Child Victims in Canada’s Justice System is a thoroughly researched resource and a valuable guide for communities wishing to better prevent and detect crimes against children, build victim assistance programs and child advocacy centres, and ensure effective response and treatment systems for children.

Acknowledgements Dedication Introduction Chapter 1: Incidence of Child Sexual Abuse Chapter 2: Human Trafficking Chapter 3: Symptoms of Child Sexual Abuse Chapter 4: Disclosing the Abuse Chapter 5: The Investigation of Child Sexual Abuse Chapter 6: The Role of Child and Youth Advocacy Centres Chapter 7: Canada’s Court Structure Chapter 8: The Rights of the Accused Chapter 9: Participants in the Trial Chapter 10: The Trial Chapter 11: History of Law Reforms in Canada Chapter 12: Criminal Law on Child Sexual Abuse Chapter 13: Support for Child Witnesses Chapter 14: Pre-trial Support Chapter 15: Court Preparation Chapter 16: Support for Children During and After the Trial Chapter 17: Sentencing Chapter 18: Assessment and Treatment of Children Who Have Experienced Sexual Abuse Chapter 19: Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse Epilogue Glossary Notes About the Authors

“Reynolds, Hughes, and Beniuk have produced an important work. A well-written and meticulously researched book that will be a very useful primer and resource piece for lawyers and others in the justice system working with abused children.”

“Child Victims in Canada’s Justice System is a practical guide for professionals working with child and youth victims of crime. Whether you work in the social service or justice system, this practical step-by-step guide is a must read.”

“A comprehensive, practical, and invaluable guide for lawyers entrusted with supporting and assisting child victims in navigating the judicial system.”CA

“A relevant and accessible resource for anyone who wishes to understand the specificity of the needs of child witnesses in the judicial system.”