NCJ Number
141512
Date Published
1986
Length
293 pages
Annotation
This investigative report provides an overview of the development, organization, and operation of the Panamanian criminal justice system.
Abstract
As part of the ILANUD and Agency for International Development (AID) project to improve the administration of criminal justice systems in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic, the report concludes with 22 points that illustrate where theory contrasts with everyday practice and where improvements are needed. Part 1 explains the organization of the Panamanian criminal justice system and its historical development from 1903 to 1984. It further details each part of the system, from the police organization and function to the judicial system and penal codes and the legal system, and explains the criminal process in Panama. Part 2 examines current problems and future priorities and strategies. Charts, tables, flowcharts, and organization charts are included, and a bibliography is appended