Youth Solitary Confinement in BC
- Proposed Class Action Lawsuit: Hammerco Lawyers are initiating a class action lawsuit. They will represent individuals who experienced solitary confinement in youth custody centers. This applies to minors held in solitary confinement in British Columbia during or after January 1, 1984.
- Allegations Against the Ministry: This lawsuit challenges the Ministry of Children and Family Development. It claims they violated the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Ministry’s legal duties.
- Improper and Prolonged Use of Solitary Confinement: Reports suggest that the province used solitary confinement for inappropriate reasons and extended durations. Contrary to Canadian guidelines.
- Class Eligibility and Participation: The Court will decide whether to certify the proposed class action at a certification hearing. The Court will also decide who is included within the class action. The proposed class includes individuals aged 12 to 17 who experienced solitary confinement in youth custody centers operated by the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development on or after January 1, 1984.
- Who is Involved: The legal team is led by Morgyn Chandler and Kevin McLaren. They specialize in trauma-informed approaches, assault, personal injury, class actions, and mass torts. Aiming to guide clients with empathy and expertise through the legal process.
Hammerco Lawyers is bringing a proposed class action lawsuit against the Ministry of Children and Family Development about the government’s practice of using solitary (or “separate”) confinement on minors in its custody since January 1, 1984. Our class action alleges that youth solitary confinement is a breach of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms rights of these individuals and of the Ministry’s fiduciary and common law duties.
For additional information, including Frequently Asked Questions, please visit our Youth Solitary Confinement in British Columbia post.