Defendant in criminal trial

The suspect of an offence becomes the defendant (accused) only when the prosecutor has decided, on the basis of the pre-trial investigation, to bring a charge. The assumption of innocence is granted as a human right. The defendant is deemed innocent, until such time that his or her guilt has been proven in a court of law.

The defendant is notified of the contents of the charge and the proof to be offered in connection wit the summons to the trial. The defendant is always summonsed to court, with the summons indicating whether his or her presence in person is required. The summons must be obeyed; unexcused absence from court is punishable by a considerable fine.

The prosecutor submits an application for a summons to the court, explaining his case. It is the duty of the prosecutor to produce the evidence and present it in court as proof of the charge.

A simple criminal case can be decided at the District Court solely on the basis of written procedure without a main hearing. This always requires the consent of the accused

Prosecutor front page

Updated on 7 July 2009