The Double Track System in Sentencing Juvenile Offenders in Indonesia: Strengths and Weaknesses of the Juvenile Criminal Justice System Act 2012

Abstract

In light of the various legal responses addressing juvenile offenders, the purpose of this article is to review the formulation of a new sentencing system in Indonesia, regulated by the Juvenile Criminal Justice Act 2012 (JCSA 2012) through the examination of the integration of the equilibrium idea of the double track system in JCJSA 2012. The paper uses normative studies, relevant legislation, as well as the concept of sentencing and the double track system to analyse interrelated issues. All data was analysed in order to gain insight and comprehension of the double track system formulated in a legislation. The results indicate that the sentencing system for juvenile offenders in Indonesia is designed to give priority to divertive, restorative and rehabilitative measures than punitive ones. As a reflection of equilibrium idea, the concept of double track system is still partially reflected in JCJSA 2012. Although the equitable position of sentencing is reflected by categorising various types of sentences and treatment, the functions of both remain unclear and overlap one another. Thus, both sentence and treatment may be executed carelessly and the administration of both may not be geared towards the determined goals. In order to prevent crimes, the effectiveness of the double track system greatly depends on the appropriateness of formulating the equilibrium idea through legislation. The analysis of the double track system is worthy for the policy maker to evaluate the existing legislation and to suggest possibilities for law reform.