Which court has original jurisdiction over youth criminal matters in New Brunswick?

The Provincial Court in New Brunswick holds original jurisdiction over youth criminal matters. This means that it is the court where these cases are first heard and decided. The Youth Criminal Justice Act governs how young offenders are treated within the criminal justice system in Canada, emphasizing rehabilitation and reintegration rather than punishment.

The Provincial Court is specifically tasked with handling matters related to youth under the age of 18 who are charged with offenses. It utilizes a more informal procedure suitable for dealing with young individuals, allowing for a focus on addressing their developmental needs and encouraging positive outcomes.

The other options do not have original jurisdiction over youth criminal matters. The Court of Appeal primarily reviews decisions made by lower courts and does not handle initial trials. Small Claims Court deals primarily with civil disputes involving limited monetary amounts and has no jurisdiction over criminal matters. The Family Division of the Court focuses more on family-related issues such as custody, access, and support, rather than criminal cases involving youth.