NCJ Number
167901
Journal
European Journal on Criminal Policy and Research Dated: (1996) Pages: 72-81
Date Published
1996
Length
8 pages
Annotation
The criminal justice system of the Czech Republic has a punitive character despite a slight change in attitudes toward punishment after 1990.
Abstract
The country followed Austrian legislation before the creation of independent Czechoslovakia in 1918. The punishments were traditional and inspired by the classical approach to criminal law. This retributive approach also prevailed in the Criminal Act of 1950, which completely replaced the previous criminal provisions. The revised law of 1961 continued this approach. Criminal law and procedures have been partially revised in recent years. New approaches include conditional postponement of criminal prosecution, the use of mediation, and the reintroduction of community service orders. However, resources must be allocated for the implementation of these noncustodial sanctions if they are to be widely used. In addition, juvenile sanctions are similar to those for adults, and it is unclear whether they will change. Overall, the nature of penalties for adult and youthful offenders have not been adapted to the new goals expressed in the laws. Thus, rehabilitation in the Czech Republic continues to be more a good intention than a reality. 1 reference