, CMY2604 Assignment 1 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) Semester 2
2025 – DUE 2025; ;100% trusted ,comprehensive and complete
reliable solution with clear explanation
Question 1
Discuss five (5) developmental factors that must be considered when
assessing Devon’s criminal capacity and sentencing prospects, as
required by the Child Justice Act 75 of 2008. For each factor, explain
why it is relevant in Devon’s case and how it may influence the court’s
decision.
Five Developmental Factors to Consider in Assessing Devon’s
Criminal Capacity and Sentencing Prospects under the Child
Justice Act 75 of 2008
Introduction
The Child Justice Act 75 of 2008 (CJA) recognises that children differ
from adults in their developmental, psychological, and social maturity,
and therefore require a justice process that is tailored to their stage of
growth. Its provisions reflect constitutional and international principles,
including the best interests of the child (s. 28(2) of the Constitution)
and the rehabilitative aims of juvenile justice. In particular, section 11 of
the CJA provides that, for children aged 14 to 17, criminal capacity must
be assessed with reference to cognitive, emotional, moral, and social
development. The court is further obliged to consider any personal or
2025 – DUE 2025; ;100% trusted ,comprehensive and complete
reliable solution with clear explanation
Question 1
Discuss five (5) developmental factors that must be considered when
assessing Devon’s criminal capacity and sentencing prospects, as
required by the Child Justice Act 75 of 2008. For each factor, explain
why it is relevant in Devon’s case and how it may influence the court’s
decision.
Five Developmental Factors to Consider in Assessing Devon’s
Criminal Capacity and Sentencing Prospects under the Child
Justice Act 75 of 2008
Introduction
The Child Justice Act 75 of 2008 (CJA) recognises that children differ
from adults in their developmental, psychological, and social maturity,
and therefore require a justice process that is tailored to their stage of
growth. Its provisions reflect constitutional and international principles,
including the best interests of the child (s. 28(2) of the Constitution)
and the rehabilitative aims of juvenile justice. In particular, section 11 of
the CJA provides that, for children aged 14 to 17, criminal capacity must
be assessed with reference to cognitive, emotional, moral, and social
development. The court is further obliged to consider any personal or
