Child Justice Act, 2008 (Act No. 75 of 2008)

Chapter 8 : Diversion

51. Objectives of diversion

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The objectives of diversion are to—

(a)deal with a child outside the formal criminal justice system in appropriate cases;
(b)encourage the child to be accountable for the harm caused by him or her;
(c)meet the particular needs of the individual child;
(d)promote the reintegration of the child into his or her family and community;
(e)provide an opportunity to those affected by the harm to express their views on its impact on them;
(f)encourage the rendering to the victim of some symbolic benefit or the delivery of some object as compensation for the harm;
(g)promote reconciliation between the child and the person or community affected by the harm caused by the child;
(h)prevent stigmatising the child and prevent the adverse consequences flowing from being subject to the criminal justice system;
(i)reduce the potential for re-offending;
(j)prevent the child from having a criminal record; and
(k)promote the dignity and well-being of the child, and the development of his or her sense of self-worth and ability to contribute to society.