European Perspectives on Pre-Trial Detention: A Means of Last Resort?

Pre-trial detention is a growing concern in many countries, and this book examines practices and ways to reduce its use across Europe. It offers country-specific studies and comparative analyses of major issues, illustrating how actors make decisions and the factors that influence PTD rates. It provides suggestions and recommendations for reducing PTD in Europe.

Format: Hardback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Pre-trial detention (PTD) has become a significant concern in many countries worldwide, including Europe. Despite its substantial impact on the prison population, PTD remains relatively overlooked in criminological and criminal justice research. This book aims to address this gap by examining pre-trial detention practices across Europe and exploring strategies for reducing their use.

The book comprises a collection of country-specific studies, providing insights into the practices and challenges of PTD in different jurisdictions. It also includes comparative studies examining major issues affecting PTD across the continent.

One of the key aspects of the book is its focus on the decision-making processes involved in PTD. It explores how judges, public prosecutors, and defense lawyers work together to make decisions about whether to grant PTD and for how long. The book identifies common challenges in PTD decision-making, such as resource constraints, legal complexities, and the risk of prejudice. It also examines the factors that contribute to higher and lower rates of PTD across Europe, including differences in criminal justice systems, legal traditions, and societal attitudes towards detention.

The book also highlights similarities and differences in PTD practices across Europe. It examines how different countries approach detention, such as the use of bail, house arrest, and electronic monitoring. It identifies areas where practices converge and diverge, such as the criteria used to determine whether to grant PTD and the conditions under which it is imposed.

Furthermore, the book explores the impact of cross-border cases on PTD policy and practice in Europe. It examines how international cooperation and extradition processes influence PTD decisions and how they impact the rights and freedoms of individuals involved in cross-border cases.

The book offers valuable suggestions and recommendations for reducing the use of PTD in Europe. It advocates for improved decision-making processes, increased transparency, and greater accountability in PTD practices. It also suggests measures to address the root cause of PTD, such as reducing the number of cases brought to trial and improving the efficiency of criminal justice systems.

Overall, this book is an essential resource for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers interested in European penal research and practice. It provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of pre-trial detention practices and offers valuable insights into strategies for reducing their use. By promoting a more evidence-based and human-rights-oriented approach to detention, this book contributes to the development of more effective and fair criminal justice systems in Europe.

Weight: 740g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367747268