Juvenile Laws at Montenegro
Montenegro has undertaken significant reforms in its juvenile justice system, aligning with international standards to prioritize rehabilitation and the protection of minors' rights. Here's an overview of the current framework:
⚖️ Legal Framework
Age of Criminal Responsibility: In Montenegro, individuals under the age of 14 are not criminally responsible. Those aged 14 to 16 can be held criminally responsible but may only receive correctional measures. Minors aged 16 to 18 can be subject to correctional measures and, in exceptional cases, a juvenile prison sentence.
Criminal Procedure Code: The Criminal Procedure Code of Montenegro outlines procedural provisions for juveniles, applicable to individuals who committed a criminal offense as a juvenile and have not reached the age of 21 at the time of the criminal procedure or trial.
🏛 Juvenile Court Procedures
Initiation of Proceedings:Juvenile proceedings are initiated only upon the request of the State Prosecutor
Diversion Orders:Montenegro's juvenile justice system emphasizes diversion orders to avoid formal criminal proceedings, These orders aim to influence the proper development of the juvenile and strengthen personal responsibility, thereby preventing future offenses
🏢 Juvenile Detention Facilities
Ljubović Center The Ljubović Center in Podgorica is the primary juvenile detention facility in Montenegr. It has been reformed to focus on rehabilitation and education, providing specialized programs for minor.
🛡 Rights and Safeguards
*Legal Representation: Minors are entitled to legal representation during criminal proceedings. Efforts are ongoing to strengthen legal aid services to ensure fair trials.
*Support Persons: In family proceedings, the court may appoint a support person to assist the child, ensuring their voice is heard and their best interests are considered.
🌍 International Commitments
*UN Convention on the Rights of the Child: Montenegro's juvenile justice system is aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, ensuring that minors' rights are protected in legal proceedigs.
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Montenegro's juvenile justice reforms reflect a commitment to a child-centric approach, focusing on rehabilitation, prevention, and the protection of minors' right. These efforts aim to create a supportive environment for young individuals, promoting their reintegration into society and reducing recidivsm.
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