• via Alberto da Giussano, 26, 20145 Milano
  • +39 02 4003 1253
  • info@studiolegalebianucci.it
  • Criminal Lawyer, Family Lawyer, Divorce Lawyer

Fraud in Commercial Activity: Analysis of Judgment No. 17839 of 2023

Judgment No. 17839 of 2023 by the Court of Cassation represents an important ruling regarding fraud in commercial activity. The specific case concerned the application and relevance of the legally prescribed detection methods, particularly the so-called "panel test" for the analysis of extra virgin olive oil.

The Context of the Judgment

The Court established that disregarding the outcomes of specific detection methods for commercial fraud does not constitute a violation of the law. This principle is based on the consideration that such methods do not introduce hypotheses of legal proof but fall within the realm of the judge's free conviction. In other words, the judge has the authority to evaluate the evidence according to their own conviction, without being bound to specific methodologies, provided that the principle of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt is respected.

Legally prescribed detection methods - Relevance - Exclusion - Reasons - Case. In the context of fraud in commercial activity, disregarding the outcomes of specific legally prescribed detection methods (in this case, the procedure of the so-called "panel test," based on a double re-analysis of extra virgin olive oil pursuant to Regulation EEC 11 July 1991, No. 2568), which do not introduce hypotheses of legal proof, is not permitted due to the principles of the judge's free conviction and guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, as the proof of the different quality of the product can be derived from heterogeneous sources.

The Legal Implications

This judgment highlights the necessity of a flexible approach in evaluating evidence concerning commercial fraud. Detection methods, such as the "panel test," while useful tools, should not become a constraint for the judge. The judge's free conviction, guaranteed by the Code of Criminal Procedure, allows for a comprehensive and integrated evaluation of the evidentiary elements.

  • Freedom of evaluation by the judge
  • Relevance of heterogeneous evidence
  • Compliance with European regulations

Conclusions

In conclusion, Judgment No. 17839 of 2023 represents a significant step in the protection of commerce and the fight against fraud. It reaffirms the principle that the judge must have the freedom to evaluate evidence critically, without being rigidly bound to specific methods, thus promoting a fairer and more just application of the law. This approach not only fosters more effective justice but also supports competitiveness and transparency in the market.