Cannabis and Juvenile Criminal Law in Switzerland
For minors under 18, different law applies: Juvenile Criminal Law Act (JCLA). Focus on education and prevention — but consequences go well beyond a 100 CHF fine.
For ages 10–17: JCLA. Up to 10 g: no fixed fine (adults only). Use: youth prosecutor, measures. Parents always informed. School can take disciplinary measures.
Legal framework — JCLA vs SCC
Under 18: JCLA. 10–15: reprimand usually sufficient. 15–18: measures including community service, fines up to 2,000 CHF.
Custodial sentence: only for serious offenses.
Cannabis use — what happens
Up to 10 g for adults = fixed fine, doesn't apply to under-18s. Referral to youth prosecutor.
Typical first measures: warning, addiction counseling.
Parent notification & school
Parents always informed (JCLA Art. 4).
School: canton-dependent. Notification to principal, disciplinary proceedings, exclusion possible.
Record & future
JCLA measures: separate juvenile record, not visible in adult Vostra.
Deletion: 5 years after measure execution, 3 years for fines.
FAQ
My 15-year-old caught with cannabis?
Referral to youth prosecutor. First measure usually warning + counseling.
100 CHF fine for minors?
No. Adults only. Minors = JCLA with measures.
Stays in criminal record?
Separate juvenile record. Deletion 3–5 years.