Webinar 2026

⚖️ Child Justice Act Amendments
What Every Practitioner Must Know

11 June 2026 | 16:00 – 19:00

Register Now

About this webinar

This webinar provides a comprehensive deep dive into the recent legislative shifts within South Africa’s child justice system. We will dissect the practical implications of the Child Justice Amendment Act, focusing primarily on the raised age of criminal capacity and its procedural impact.

Designed for legal practitioners, the session bridges the gap between statutory changes and courtroom application. Attendees will gain the clarity needed to effectively navigate new diversion protocols and sentencing mandates.

Topics to be covered

• Revised Minimum Age of Criminal Capacity: Mastery of new legal thresholds for ages 12–14.
• Preliminary Inquiries: Handling initial appearances and assessments.
• Diversion Frameworks: Expanded alternatives to formal trials.
• Sentencing & Placement: Informed decisions on detention and rehabilitation.
• Detention Challenges: Addressing lack of adequate facilities.
• Children as Witnesses: Ensuring protection of vulnerable witnesses.

Benefits of attending

• Legislative Compliance: Stay aligned with current SA law.
• Risk Mitigation: Avoid costly procedural errors.
• Expert Insight: Understand real-time court application.
• Professional Development: Strengthen your expertise in child justice.

Background

The Child Justice Act 75 of 2008 marked a turning point in South African law. Recent amendments raising the age of criminal capacity from 10 to 12 years align the system with international human rights standards.

These changes fundamentally impact how police, prosecutors, and defence counsel manage cases involving minors. Staying informed is essential for ethical and effective practice.

Presenters

William Booth – Criminal Defence Counsel, Chairperson of LSSA Criminal Law Committee, member of ICC and Legal Practice Council.

Co-Presenter: Arina Smit – Registered social worker with extensive court experience and founder of “My Just Life”.

Who should register?

• Legal Practitioners (Attorneys & Advocates)
• Candidate Legal Practitioners
• Criminal Defence Attorneys
• Prosecutors (NPA)
• Magistrates & Judicial Officers

Registration fees (including VAT)

How to register

Step 1: Make EFT payment and upload proof.

Bank: FNB Pretoria
Account: Law Society of South Africa
Account No: 6200 9641 079

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Step 3: You will receive confirmation and MS Teams access details via email 24 hours before the webinar.