Bundestag Passes Comprehensive Criminal Procedure Reform Bill
Berlin, December 17, 2024 – The German Bundestag has passed a comprehensive bill to modernize criminal procedure in the country. The bill, known as the “Gesetzentwurf Entwurf eines Gesetzes zur modernen und praxistauglichen Ausgestaltung des Strafverfahrens, zur Modernisierung der Zeugnisverweigerungsrechte in gerichtlichen Verfahren und zur Überarbeitung von Vermögensabschöpfung und Unterbringung im Jugendstrafrecht” (20/14258), was approved with a large majority.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The new law introduces a number of significant changes to German criminal procedure, including:
- Expansion of video conferencing: The use of video conferencing for court hearings and witness testimony will be expanded, allowing for greater flexibility and efficiency in the justice system.
- Modernization of expert testimony: The bill introduces new rules for expert testimony, ensuring that experts are qualified and impartial.
- Improved witness protection: Victims and witnesses will be provided with enhanced protection, including the possibility of anonymous testimony and the use of protective measures such as screen walls.
- Simplified witness refusal rights: The rules governing witness refusal rights have been simplified, making it easier for witnesses to decline to testify in certain cases.
- Overhaul of asset forfeiture: The bill overhauls the rules governing asset forfeiture, providing for a more effective and proportionate approach to seizing and confiscating criminal assets.
- Reform of juvenile detention: The bill introduces new measures to improve the conditions of juvenile detention and promote rehabilitation.
Minister of Justice Welcomes the Reform
Minister of Justice Marco Buschmann welcomed the passage of the bill, saying that it would “modernize German criminal procedure and make it more effective and efficient.” He added that the new law would also “strengthen the rights of victims and witnesses and protect them from intimidation.”
Opposition Parties Raise Concerns
While the bill was supported by a majority of Bundestag members, some opposition parties raised concerns about certain provisions. The Left Party expressed concerns about the expansion of video conferencing, arguing that it could lead to a reduction in the quality of justice. The AfD party criticized the new witness refusal rights, claiming that they could hinder the prosecution of criminals.
Implementation and Next Steps
The new law is expected to come into force in early 2025. The German government will now begin the process of implementing the new provisions and ensuring that the justice system is prepared for the changes.
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