Criminal Law Webinar 2026

Sexual Offences Webinar

12 August 2026 | 16:00 – 19:00

Gain practical insight into the legal framework governing sexual offences in South Africa, including recent case law developments, victim-centred approaches, and contemporary challenges facing legal practitioners and criminal justice professionals.

REGISTER NOW

About this Webinar

This webinar provides an overview of the Sexual Offences Act and its application within the framework of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977, together with the broader legal framework governing sexual offences in South Africa.

The presentation explores the definition and classification of sexual offences, consent, evidentiary challenges, and the rights of complainants and accused persons.

Particular emphasis will be placed on victim-centred approaches and safeguarding vulnerable witnesses throughout the criminal justice process.

Topics to be Covered

• Diversion of Less Serious Sexual Offence Matters – Legal framework, accountability, rehabilitation and the interests of justice.
• Sentencing of Child Offenders – Assessment, detention, treatment and rehabilitation considerations.
• Sexual Offences Involving Minors at Social and Educational Events – Prevention, reporting obligations, victim protection and legal consequences.
• Online Sexual Grooming and Technology-Facilitated Sexual Offences – Digital risks, investigation, prosecution and prevention.
• Recent Legal Developments and Practical Considerations – Current case law, legislative developments and emerging trends.

Benefits of Attending

• Stay informed on recent legislative amendments and case law developments.
• Strengthen practical expertise in investigation, prosecution, defence and adjudication of sexual offences.
• Develop victim-centred approaches aligned with best practice principles.
• Understand contemporary challenges such as online grooming and technology-facilitated offences.
• Earn CPD points while engaging with industry professionals and specialists.

Background to this Presentation

Sexual offences remain a significant concern within South Africa and globally, affecting individuals, families and communities across all sectors of society.

The legal landscape continues to evolve in response to emerging challenges, including offences involving minors, online sexual grooming and the growing need for victim-centred approaches within the criminal justice system.

This presentation aims to provide an overview of key legal principles, current trends and practical challenges encountered in the investigation, prosecution and adjudication of sexual offence matters.

Presenter

William Booth

Criminal Defence Counsel

Mr Booth was the Chairperson of the former Cape Law Society’s Criminal Law Committee and currently serves as Chairperson of the Law Society of South Africa’s Criminal Law Committee.

He also serves on the LSSA’s Legal Aid Committee and is a member of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Mr Booth is a member of the Legal Practice Council (Western Cape) and is widely recognised for his extensive experience in criminal law and criminal justice matters.

Who Should Register?

• Legal Practitioners involved in criminal law, litigation, family law and victim support matters.
• Candidate Legal Practitioners seeking practical exposure to sexual offences law.
• Prosecutors, Magistrates and Judicial Officers.
• Law Enforcement Officials.
• Social Workers, Child and Youth Care Workers and Victim Support Practitioners.
• Educators, School Counsellors and Child Protection Professionals.
• Legal Academics, Researchers and Students.
• Government Officials, NGOs and Community-Based Organisations.

Registration Fees (Including VAT)

How to Register

Registrations are completed online. Participants must register individually using their own email address.

Step 1: Payment

Account Name: Law Society of South Africa
Bank: FNB Pretoria
Branch Code: 250655
Account Number: 6200 9641 079
Reference: Surname, Initials and Cellphone

Step 2: Online Registration

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Step 3: Confirmation

You will receive a confirmation email and, approximately 24 hours before the webinar, your MS Teams link and course material.

Contact

For more information contact the Seminars Department

📧 Seminars@LSSALEAD.org.za

Please Take Note

• The webinar is presented in English only.
• The webinar will be delivered via MS Teams.
• No recordings or PowerPoint presentations will be shared.
• Course material and links will be sent approximately 24 hours before commencement.
• Cancellations must be submitted before course material and links are issued.
• LSSA/LEAD reserves the right to postpone or cancel training due to insufficient demand.