The use of pre-trial detention has been criticized and debated frequently in Europe, and especially in the Netherlands. Questions are raised whether pre-trial detention is used too often and whether the practice of pre-trial detention is in line with standards set by the ECtHR. This research on pre-trial detention in the Netherlands is part of a broader EU wide research project on the application of pre-trial detention in a selected number of EU member states. Goal of the research project is collecting information on the legal framework on pre-trial detention and its application in practice in a selection of member states. This in order to inform the debate on the European level on the necessity of EU-legislation in this field. The research findings are based on questionnaires filled in by defence lawyers, observing pre-trial detention hearings, reviewing case files of closed cases and inter views with judges and prosecutors. The main conclusion of the Dutch research is that the Dutch legislation on pre-trial detention generally is in conformity with European standards. However, the practice of applying pre-trial detention falls somewhat short of these standards; especially the high percentage of pre-trial detention being ordered, the limited reasoning of decisions and the infrequent use of alternatives to pre-trial detention are noteworthy. (Series: Meijers Research Institute and Graduate School of the Leiden Law School of Leiden University) [Subject: Criminal Law and Procedure]

With the entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon, the EU has acquired a competence in criminal procedure law and in the field of procedural rights of persons who are accused of committing a criminal offence. Harmonizing the way in which criminal proceedings are being conducted and safeguarding the rights of the accused in a uniform manner throughout the EU has therefore become possible. This book addresses international legislative measures which are already in place, underway, or planned to be adopted in near future. Additionally, the case-law with regard to pre-trial detention of a number of international courts is analyzed. Together, they serve as the starting point leading to an answer of the main questions that this book poses: Do we already have minimum standards stemming from international law with regard to criminal proceedings involving pre-trial detention? If so, are they properly understood and applied at national level in the Member States of the EU? If not, what is the European Union doing or can do to improve the rights of persons in pre-trial detention? The analysis should be especially useful to criminal justice professionals working in the area of EU law.

This publication examines the rules in force in Europe governing prisons and the treatment of prisoners, including the use of force, the selection of prison staff and the protection of prisoners' human rights, based on Recommendation Rec (2006) 2 on the European Prison Rules (which was adopted by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe in January 2006). It contains the text of the recommendation with a detailed commentary on it, together with a report which considers recent developments and analyses the effectiveness of these rules and of imprisonment as a form of punishment.

High levels of remand or pre-trial detention (PTD) is a matter of growing concern in many countries, and at a European level. Despite being responsible for a significant part of the prison population, PTD practice is rarely the focus of criminological and criminal justice research. This book examines pre-trial detention practices and different ways of reducing its use across Europe. Offering a range of country-specific studies, this book also offers comparative studies of major issues across the continent. In particular, this book illustrates and examines how the actors (judges, public prosecutors, defence lawyers) work in pre-trial proceedings and make decisions; the common challenges in PTD decision-making; the factors which explain higher and lower rates of PTD across Europe; similarities and differences in practice; and the ways in which cross-border cases in Europe influence policy and practice. Offering suggestions and recommendations for how to bring down the use of PTD in Europe, this book is essential reading for all those engaged with European penal research and practice.

Over recent years most of the criminal justice systems in Europe have witnessed a tendency to enhance the role of pre-trial inquiries. Different kinds of pre-trial measures have had a heavy impact on the fundamental rights of individuals involved in criminal procedures.The book contains a comparative study of four European countries on pre-trial precautionary measures limiting personal liberty. This comparison is part of two general frameworks concerning the ECtHR case-law and the EU legislation in the field of the right to liberty and security. In its two level approach, the book provides a critical guide for understanding the most significant changes which occurred in the area of liberty and security in the pre-trial phases of criminal proceedings as well as the protection systems developed in Europe both at national and supranational level to face the new challenges of the modern criminal investigation.