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The Guidelines for Prosecutors

Document number
1647
Date
2006
Title
The Guidelines for Prosecutors
Author/publisher
Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Ireland
Availability
View/save PDF version of this document
Document type(s)
Training Material/Resources,
Keywords
Identification, Reporting, Investigation, Criminal charges, Task forces, Data analysis, Data collection, Data exchange; Organized crime, Prosecution, Law Enforcement, Criminal justice, Judicial cooperation; Victim-centred approach, National anti-trafficking measures; Criminalisation, Punishment, Crime prevention; Unlawful deprivation of liberty,
Summary
The Guidelines for Prosecutors first published in 2001 aims to set out in general terms principles to guide the initiation and conduct of prosecutions in Ireland. It is intended to give general guidance to prosecutors so that a fair, reasoned, and consistent policy underlies the prosecution process. The Guidelines did not purport to deal with all questions which can arise in the prosecution process nor with every aspect of the role of the prosecutor in their determination. The Guidelines were intended to be a working document which requires, in the light of circumstances, to be adjusted or elaborated. The Guidelines for Prosecutors have now been substantially revised and the principal changes reflected in this revised edition are: ■ the incorporation of a Code of Ethics for Prosecutors; ■ more detailed guidelines relating to the disclosure of evidence; ■ a new chapter setting out principles to be considered in relation to accomplice evidence and the granting of immunity from prosecution or other concessions; and ■ new guidelines on forfeiture and confiscation of assets following conviction. Review of the Guidelines for Prosecutors will remain an ongoing process reflecting legislative and procedural changes in the criminal justice system.
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