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Questions and Answers
Who is the lecturer for the Introduction to the Criminal Justice System (CRIM1624)?
Dr. Patrick Bashizi Bashige Murhula
What are the consulting hours for the lecturer?
Mondays (11h00 – 13h00) and Wednesdays (09h00 – 11h00)
Which of the following are levels of the South African court system? (Select all that apply)
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What is the main aim of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJ&CD)?
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Which of the following punishment approaches aim at changing behavior to reduce the likelihood of future crime?
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The Supreme Court of Appeal hears constitutional matters.
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Match the following courts with their functions:
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What is the highest court in South Africa?
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Study Notes
Introduction to the Criminal Justice System (CRIM1624)
- Lecturer: Dr. Patrick Bashizi Bashige Murhula, with advanced degrees in Criminology and Forensic Studies.
- Consulting hours: Mondays (11h00 – 13h00) and Wednesdays (09h00 – 11h00).
- Teaching assistant: Ms. Alex Giddy.
Theme 3: The South African Court System
- Two units covered:
- Unit 1: South African Court System and Morality Transgressions.
- Unit 2: National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Forensic Criminology, and Sequential Functioning of Criminal Justice System (CJS).
Judicial System Overview
- Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJ&CD):
- Integral part of the CJS.
- Focus on upholding the South African Constitution and rule of law.
- Aims for an efficient and responsive justice system for all citizens.
Punishment Approaches
- Deterrence: Punishment aimed at discouraging crime.
- Prevention (incapacitation): Removal of criminals to prevent re-offense.
- Retribution: Restores balance between community and offender.
- Rehabilitation: Behavioral changes to decrease future crime likelihood.
- Restoration: Aims to repair conflicts between victim and offender.
South African Court Hierarchy
- Composed of four levels:
- Constitutional Court: Highest court, addresses constitutional matters.
- Supreme Court of Appeal: Hears civil and criminal cases excluding constitutional issues.
- High Courts: Handles serious civil and criminal matters, acts as first instance and as an appellate body for Magistrate’s Court.
- Lower Courts: Includes Regional and Ordinary Magistrates Courts with specific jurisdiction limits.
Lower Courts Details
-
Ordinary Magistrates Court (District Court):
- Jurisdiction over minor criminal matters.
- Maximum imprisonment of 3 years; fines up to R100,000.
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Regional Magistrates Courts:
- Handle cases with potential imprisonment of up to 20 years.
- Jurisdiction excludes treason; fines can be up to R300,000.
High Courts
- Jurisdiction includes serious civil and criminal matters.
- Handles cases over R100,000 and serious crimes like premeditated murder.
- No sentencing limitations for criminals.
Supreme Court of Appeal
- Hears appeals from High Courts.
- Consists of President, Deputy President, and 23 judges.
- Decisions are binding on all lower courts.
Constitutional Court
- The apex court linked to the South African Constitution.
- Receives referrals from the Supreme Court of Appeal and High Court.
- Solely deals with constitutional matters.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your knowledge on the basics of the criminal justice system in this quiz designed for CRIM1624. This course covers key concepts, theories, and practices that shape the field of criminology and forensic studies. Challenge yourself and see how well you understand the foundations of criminal justice.
