Criminal Procedure Code at Dominica
The Criminal Law and Procedure Act, Chapter 12:01 (Act No. 3 of 1873) is the primary legislation governing criminal procedure in the Commonwealth of Dominica. This Act outlines the processes for criminal trials, including arrest, detention, trial procedures, and appeals. It has been amended several times to address evolving legal standards and practices. (NATLEX - Dominica - Criminal Law And Procedure Act, Chapter 12:01 (Act No. 3 of 1873).)
⚖️ Key Features of the Act
Arrest and Detention: The Act specifies the grounds and procedures for lawful arrest and detention, ensuring that individuals are informed of the reasons for their arrest and are brought before a court within a reasonable time. (Dominica: Constitution)
Preliminary Inquiry: It provides for a preliminary inquiry to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial.
Trial Procedures: The Act outlines the steps in a criminal trial, including the rights of the accused, the roles of the prosecution and defense, and the conduct of the trial.
Appeals: It details the processes for appealing convictions and sentences, including the grounds for appeal and the procedures to follow.
📄 Accessing the Legislation
The full text of the Criminal Law and Procedure Act is available on the Government of Dominica's official website: (Legislation)
👉 Criminal Law and Procedure Act – Dominica Government
🔄 Recent Amendments
The Act has been amended to reflect changes in legal standards and practices. For instance, the Criminal Law and Procedure (Amendment) Act, 2014 (Act 3 of 2014) introduced modifications to certain procedures and provisions within the Act. (NATLEX - Dominica - Criminal Law and Procedure (Amendment) Act, 2014, Act 3 of 2014.)
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