BASIC RULES OF APPLYING THE PRINCIPLE OF EQUALITY OF ARMS IN THE MISDEMEANOUR PROCEDURE OF THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA
Author/s: Mladen Jeličić,
Pages: 57-72
UDK: 342.722:343.1
DOI:
Abstract: The author discusses the principle of equality of arms in the misdemeanour procedure of the Republic of Serbia. Following the introductory remarks, the basic characteristics of the misdemeanour procedure are indicated. The subject matter of the analysis is the case law of the European Court of Human Rights, which establishes this principle as the basic principle of fair trial. The author emphasizes the importance of the proper management of the misdemeanour procedure by the court by linking the principle under consideration with the principle of the party which requires legal assistance. The relationship between the said principle and the defendant’s right to a defence, has been analysed. The subject of interest of the author is also a specific institute - a decision without hearing the defendant. The author concludes that the application of the principle of equality of arms in the practice of misdemeanour courts must be grounded in normative frameworks and that this principle must be the guiding principle that obliges the court to resolve any doubts in the interpretation and application of law, bearing in mind the imperative of a fair misdemeanour procedure.
Keywords: equality of arms, misdemeanour procedure, right to defence, party which requires legal assistance, decisions without hearing defendant
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