THE SENTENCING PROCESS TO THE CONVICTED JUVENILE OFFENDER: THE JUDICIAL OFFICERS NEED ATTENTION

Abstract

The child in some occasion perpetrates criminal offences. Such child is taken to court to answer the accusation. In case the court convicts him/her enters the sentence. However, before imposition of the sentence the court has responsibility to find out the best theory of punishment.  This is with a view of rehabilitating the offender. However, it has been noted that, courts overlook this condition and imposes sentences which deteriorate the welfare of the child by disregarding the theories of punishment and important factors required to be considered before the imposition of the sentence. This article discusses the theories of punishment and the important factors required to be considered by the court before the imposition of the sentence to the convicted juvenile offender. This is with a view of calling attention to the judicial officers to utilise such theories and factors in the course of imposition of sentences to the juvenile for the purpose of rehabilitation process.