Criminal Procedure Law Amended; Major Changes In Trial, Detention And Rights

The reform introduces new sanctions aimed at protecting the presumption of innocence, alongside significant changes to heavy criminal trials, detention procedures, bail orders and defendants’ rights.

One of the most notable provisions concerns the “Violation of the Presumption of Innocence.” Under the new law, individuals who publicly share the full names or photographs of suspects who do not have a final conviction, or of complainants and witnesses during ongoing proceedings, will be deemed to have committed an offence. If such acts are carried out through the press, online media or social media, fines may be doubled.

However, the law also introduces an exception regarding press freedom. Reporting on matters of public interest in criminal proceedings will not constitute an offence, provided that the identities and photographs of the individuals concerned are not disclosed.

Preliminary inquiry stage abolished

The reform significantly restructures criminal procedure by largely abolishing the preliminary inquiry stage in cases that fall under the jurisdiction of the Assize Court. Cases will now be referred directly to the Assize Court, with the aim of accelerating proceedings and reducing procedural delays.

Under the new system, if a court determines during summary proceedings that a case should be heard at the Assize Court, the file will be transferred directly. The first hearing in such cases must be scheduled at least 15 days after referral.

Stronger defence rights

The amendment also strengthens defendants’ right to legal representation. Courts may appoint a lawyer for suspects or defendants depending on the nature and seriousness of the case and the individual’s circumstances. Individuals certified as financially unable by the Social Services Department will be assigned lawyers through the Bar Association, with costs covered by the state budget.

Mandatory disclosure of evidence

New rules also regulate the sharing of evidence between prosecution and defence. Individuals to be tried at the Assize Court will have the right to obtain copies of the indictment as well as statements and documents in the prosecution file. These may also be provided digitally. The defence will likewise be required to submit any documents it intends to use in court within specified deadlines.

New rules on detention and bail

The law introduces new principles governing detention decisions. In summary proceedings, each detention period may not exceed eight days. Courts will not issue a detention order if a bail order already exists and no concrete justification is provided for its insufficiency.

If the court receives information that a person released on bail is preparing to leave the country, it may order detention or impose new bail conditions.

Time limit on old bail orders

The law also applies to bail orders issued before its entry into force. Bail orders that have been in place for more than 12 months without a case being filed must be followed by a case within six months or be extended by court order; otherwise, they will automatically expire.

The amendment, which introduces significant changes to the criminal justice system, entered into force on 4 June 2026 following publication in the Official Gazette.