Criminal Procedure Code at Austria
Austria's Code of Criminal Procedure (Strafprozessordnung, StPO) is a fundamental piece of legislation that governs criminal proceedings in the country. Originally enacted on December 9, 1975, it has undergone numerous amendments to adapt to evolving legal standards and societal needs. (Strafprozessordnung/Austrian Code of Criminal Procedure)
Key Features of the Austrian Code of Criminal Procedure
Structure and Scope: The StPO outlines the procedures for criminal investigations, prosecution, trial, and appeals. It defines the roles and responsibilities of various parties involved, including the police, prosecutors, judges, defense attorneys, and defendants.
Principles of Criminal Procedure: The code emphasizes principles such as the presumption of innocence, the right to a fair trial, and the right to legal representation.
Investigation and Prosecution: It details the procedures for initiating criminal investigations, gathering evidence, and prosecuting offenses.
Trial Procedures: The StPO specifies the conduct of trials, including the presentation of evidence, examination of witnesses, and the rights of the accused.
Appeals and Legal Remedies: It provides mechanisms for challenging convictions and sentences, ensuring that individuals have avenues to seek justice if they believe errors have occurred.
Accessing the Full Text
Official Publications: The latest consolidated version of the StPO, incorporating amendments up to Federal Law Gazette I No. 70/2018, is available through the Austrian Federal Chancellery's legal information portal. (WIPO Lex, Member Profile, Austria)
English Translations: For English-speaking audiences, comprehensive translations of the StPO are available: (Strafprozessordnung/Austrian Code of Criminal Procedure | eBook | 99.105005/9783708341941)
Print and eBook Editions: A bilingual German-English edition, edited by Andreas Schloenhardt and Johannes Eder, is available for purchase. This edition provides detailed annotations and is designed for legal professionals and scholars. (Strafprozessordnung/Austrian Code of Criminal Procedure)
University of Vienna Publication: An earlier English translation, also by Schloenhardt and Eder, was published by the University of Vienna in 2019. This version serves as an academic resource for comparative legal studies. (Austrian Code of Criminal Procedure — University of Vienna)
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