The neo-classical school was largely based on the same principles as the Classical School of thought. However, the neo-classical thinkers believed in a more individualized reaction to offenders. Neo-classicism permitted more judicial discretion base on objective circumstantial analysis. However, no consideration was given to the intent of the offender. The neo-classical thinkers made exceptions to the law and considered multiple causation of crime.

The relevance of the neo-classical school of thought is that for the first time, separate treatment for offences by children was prescribed. Children below the age of seven were exempted from criminal liability and mental insanity made its way into the law as a valid defence against criminality. Basically, any situation or circumstance that could possibly compromise free will and voluntary action was considered a reason to exempt a person from legal liability of a criminal offence. This school of thought began to explore the causation of criminal behaviour above and beyond considering effective legal sanctions for crime.

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