Criminal Procedure Code at Bulgaria
Bulgaria's Criminal Procedure Code (CPC) serves as the foundational legal framework governing criminal proceedings in the country. The current consolidated version is based on State Gazette No. 86/2005, with amendments up to August 5, 2022. This version was promulgated on October 28, 2005, and entered into force on April 29, 2006. (Criminal Procedure Code (SG No. 86/2005, as amended up to August 5, 2022), Bulgaria, WIPO Lex)
Key Features of the Criminal Procedure Code
Language of Proceedings: The official language for criminal proceedings is Bulgarian. However, individuals who do not speak Bulgarian have the right to use their native language or another language, with an interpreter provided at no cost . (Language, Language in 'Bulgaria - Criminal Procedure Code 2006 (2011) EN')
Rights of the Accused: The Code ensures that the accused have the right to be informed promptly of the charges, to have adequate time and facilities to prepare a defense, to communicate with a legal representative, and to have an interpreter if necessary.
Pre-Trial Procedures: It outlines the procedures for investigation, including the roles of prosecutors and investigators, the rights of suspects during detention, and the conditions under which pre-trial detention may be ordered.
Trial Procedures: The Code specifies the conduct of trials, including the presentation of evidence, examination of witnesses, and the rights of the defense and prosecution.
Appeals and Post-Conviction Remedies: It provides mechanisms for appealing judgments, including cassation procedures, and outlines the grounds for reopening cases.
International Cooperation: The Code includes provisions for the enforcement of foreign judgments and cooperation with international legal instruments, such as the European Arrest Warrant . (Statute)
Accessing the Criminal Procedure Code
An official English translation of the Criminal Procedure Code is available through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Lex database. This resource provides the full text of the Code, including all amendments up to August 5, 2022. (Criminal Procedure Code (SG No. 86/2005, as amended up to August 5, 2022), Bulgaria, WIPO Lex)
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