What Was the Traditional View of the Competency of Children

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The Answer is The traditional view of the competency of children to testify in court was that they were not considered reliable witnesses due to their age and perceived immaturity. Children were often seen as easily influenced and unable to fully understand the importance of telling the truth in a legal setting.

In modern Canadian courts, the competency of children under 14 to give testimony is ensured through a process called "voir dire." During a voir dire, the judge will assess the child's understanding of the difference between truth and lies, their ability to communicate effectively, and their understanding of the importance of telling the truth in court. This assessment is done in a child-friendly and non-intimidating manner, often with the help of a support person or a child psychologist.

Additionally, Canadian courts may allow for accommodations such as testifying via closed-circuit television or with the assistance of a support person to help the child feel more comfortable and able to communicate effectively. These measures help to ensure that children under 14 are competent to give testimony in court and that their voices are heard in a fair and just manner.

What Was the Traditional View of the Competency of Children

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