World Factbook of Criminal Justice Systems: Italy

• NCJ Number: 169641
• Date Published: June 1993
• Publication Type: Publication

Annotation

This report provides information and statistics on Italy's criminal justice system, including its police, courts, and corrections.

Abstract

Italy has no federal government nor federal system of justice. All criminal laws are contained in the Penal Code and many other statutes. The Constitution of the Italian Republic states that all laws must be published in the Gazzetta Ufficiale dello Stato, which is the Official Gazette of the State. These written mandatory statutes are effective throughout the Nation. The statutes do not conflict with the Constitution. The various parts of the criminal justice system are part of a state system that operates throughout the national territory through districts and other minor territorial jurisdictions. Criminal procedure is adversarial. No informal justice system exists. Penal Law defines what specific behavior is criminal and what minimum and maximum penalties are provided. The judiciary and prosecutors are autonomous and independent from the political legislative and executive powers. This report has a section on crime that discusses the classification of crimes and crime statistics. A section on victims addresses the groups most victimized by crime, the role of victims in prosecution and sentencing, and victims' rights legislation. A profile of the police focuses on administration, resources, technology, training and qualifications, discretion, and accountability. Other sections of the report provide information on the prosecutorial and judicial process, the judicial system, prisons, and extradition and treaties. 37 references