The Czech Republic is a sovereign, united, democratic, law- and-order state based on respect for the rights and liberties of citizens. The Republic is divided into municipalities that are the principal autonomous units. The territorial autonomous units are territorial communities of citizens who have the right of self-government. The legal system is similar to that of continental Europe, characterized by the use of written laws enacted by legislative or executive bodies. The most important source of law is the Constitution. The Constitutional Court oversees whether laws conform to the Constitution. After November 1989, there was an urgent need for elaboration of a new penal law that would conform to the principles of a liberal and humane law- and-order state. As early as December 1989, law no. 159/1989 abolished the regulations that clearly violated human rights, such as those concerning emigration and those used to suppress the influence of the church. Amendments to the Penal Code on May 2, 1990, changed old rules, decriminalized many actions, and removed ideological influences from the legal system. This report's section on crime considers the classification of crime and crime statistics. A section on crime victims addresses the groups most victimized by crime, victims' assistance agencies, and the role of crime victims in prosecution and sentencing. A report on the police describes its administration, resources, technology, discretion, and accountability. Other sections of the report discuss prosecutorial and judicial process, the judicial system, prisons, and extradition and treaties. 33 references
World Factbook of Criminal Justice Systems: Czech Republic
NCJ Number
169647
Date Published
1997
Length
34 pages
Annotation
This report provides information and statistics on the Czech Republic's criminal justice system, including its police, courts, and corrections.
Abstract