NCJ Number
147343
Journal
Archives of Criminology Dated: (1993) Pages: 27-106
Date Published
1993
Length
80 pages
Annotation
This paper analyzes the sentencing and correctional policies and penal legislation in Poland between 1980 and 1991.
Abstract
Major changes occurred in Polish penal legislation during the 1980's. During the early 1980's, the imposition of martial law in response to the Solidarity movement resulted in provisions typical of the law of war that aggravated criminal responsibility. The laws of May 1985 produced a new martial law in penal law. Departure from this overly punitive approach began in 1989 with the emergence of the new political order, which created the initial conditions for the building of the Third Republic. Since 1989, the proportion of persons convicted for more serious offenses began to increase rapidly. The most severe penalty is capital punishment, but it has not been imposed since 1988. Prison terms of 1 year of less currently make up only 8-13 percent of all sentences. Fines are used as the sole penalty in only 13-15 percent of cases. Thus, Poland still has the style of punishment shaped in the 1970's. Major reforms remain undone, although the first steps have occurred in the form of the virtual abolition of capital punishment and the reduction of the amount of fines. Tables and footnotes