Commentary on Judgment No. 45842 of 2024: Appeals and Defense for Fugitives

Judgment No. 45842 of 2024 by the Court of Cassation represents an important reference point regarding appeals, particularly concerning defendants declared fugitives. The decision addresses the issue of the admissibility of appeals in the context of an absent individual assisted by a court-appointed defender, clarifying some problems related to the right to defense.

The Regulatory Context

The Court referred to Article 581, paragraph 1-quater, of the Code of Criminal Procedure, which establishes that, under penalty of inadmissibility, the defender must file a specific mandate to appeal, complete with a declaration or election of domicile. This rule, in its wording prior to the entry into force of Law No. 114 of 2024, has also been applied to the absent defendant declared a fugitive. But what does this mean in practice?

  • The rule aims to ensure the formalization of defenses even in situations of the defendant's absence.
  • It is essential to maintain a continuity of contact between the fugitive defendant and their defender.
  • The right to defense is protected, even if the defendant is not present in the courtroom.

The Right to Defense and Fugitivity

A crucial aspect of the judgment is the emphasis that the fugitive is not legally prevented from maintaining contact with their defender. This element is fundamental to understanding the principle of non-compression of the right to defense. The Court stated that, despite physical absence, the defendant has the opportunity to agree with the defender on defensive strategies.

ADMISSIBILITY AND INADMISSIBILITY - Article 581, paragraph 1-quater, Code of Criminal Procedure in the text prior to the entry into force of Law No. 114 of 2024 - Applicability to the absent defendant declared a fugitive and assisted by a court-appointed defender - Existence - Reasons. Regarding appeals, Article 581, paragraph 1-quater, Code of Criminal Procedure, in the text prior to the entry into force of Article 2, paragraph 1, letter o), Law No. 114 of August 9, 2024, by virtue of which the defender must file, under penalty of inadmissibility, the specific mandate to appeal containing the declaration or election of domicile, applies also to the absent defendant who has been declared a fugitive and is assisted by a court-appointed defender, as no compression of the right to defense can be configured, since the fugitive is not legally prevented from maintaining contact with their defender in order to agree on defensive strategies.

Conclusions

In conclusion, Judgment No. 45842 of 2024 provides a clear view of the dynamics related to appeals for fugitive defendants. It emphasizes that the right to defense must always be guaranteed, even in the physical absence of the defendant, and how the role of the court-appointed defender is crucial in ensuring this right. Through this decision, the Court contributes to outlining a clearer and more protective regulatory framework for defendants, highlighting the importance of communication and strategic planning even in critical situations.

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