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In Panama City, criminal litigation involves the legal process of prosecuting or defending against charges in criminal cases. This area of law deals with offenses against society as a whole, enforced by state prosecution agencies. Offenses can range from minor traffic infractions to severe crimes like murder or drug trafficking. Panama City's criminal litigation law is based on the Penal Code of the Republic of Panama and other specialized laws involving drug-related crimes, financial crimes, among others.
You might need a lawyer under different circumstances. For instance, someone accused of any criminal offense will require legal representation to ensure their rights are protected. Victims of crime may also need a lawyer to assist them in navigating through the criminal justice system. Lawyers can provide advice on a range of issues, from bail conditions to plea bargains, and can represent you in trial, ensuring a fair and balanced process.
In Panama City, the local Penal Code covers an extensive list of crimes subdivided into various categories such as crimes against life and personal integrity, crimes against freedom, crimes against sexual morality, crimes against property, and others. The Penal Code also includes details on possible punishments, which vary based on the severity of the crime. Importantly, the principle of legality is adopted, meaning no one can be penalized for an act that is not expressly described and penalized as a crime by a preexisting law.
In Panama, upon arrest, you have the right to remain silent, the right to a lawyer, and the right to contact a family member or representative from your embassy if you are a foreigner.
No, you have the right to remain silent and it is usually advisable to wait until you have spoken with your lawyer before providing any statement.
No, the Panamanian Constitution requires a court-issued warrant for the search of private property, except in immediate and evident cases of crime.
A person may be detained without formal charges for up to 48 hours. Following this, formal charges must be laid or the person must be released.
Yes, in Panama, defendants have the right to appeal against a verdict they consider unfair.
Legal resources in Panama City include the Public Ministry, comprised of the Attorney General's Office and its branches, which protect the interests of the State and society. The Ombudsman's Office exists to protect human rights and is an organization where citizens can file complaints against violations of their rights by authorities.
If you find yourself involved in criminal litigation and need legal assistance, the first step is to identify a reliable lawyer specializing in criminal law. Seek consultation from legal services firms in Panama City, ensuring your chosen professional has the necessary background and expertise in the specific area of your concern. Do not hesitate to ask about their success rate, reputation, and procedural knowledge. Finally, always be frank and honest with your lawyer about all aspects of your case for them to represent you effectively.
