Department Of Justice And Constitutional Development Budget

Vote purpose

Uphold and protect the Constitution and the rule of law, and render accessible, fair, speedy and cost-effective administration of justice in the interests of a safer and more secure South Africa.

Mandate

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development derives its mandate from a number of acts, in addition to the mandate it derives from the Constitution. These acts and the constitutional framework assign functions to the department, such as: the establishment of magistrate’s courts, and the appointment of magistrates and other judicial officers; the establishment and functioning of the Special Investigating Unit and the National Prosecuting Authority, including the asset forfeiture unit; the conducting of criminal proceedings; the prosecution of organised crime and corruption, and the forfeiture of assets obtained through illicit means; the provision of witness protection to vulnerable and intimidated witnesses and their related persons in judicial proceedings; the establishment and functioning of bodies responsible for legal aid, law reform and rule making; the appointment of masters of the high courts; the administration of the Guardian’s Fund.