Zahursky O., Oheruk I. Implementation of the right to defense in criminal proceedings in the Republic of Poland: theoretical and legal analysis

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33098/2078-6670.2025.19.31.335-340

Purpose. To formulate original approaches to the specific features of exercising the right to defence in the criminal procedure of the Republic of Poland and to the implementation of international experience in improving criminal proceedings in the context of contemporary legal reforms in Ukraine. Methodology. The methodology includes a comprehensive analysis and a synthesis of available scientific and theoretical information. It is includes the formulation of relevant conclusions and recommendations. Such methods of scientific knowledge were used: terminological, logical-semantic, functional, systemic-structural, logical-normative. Results. In the course of the research, it was established that the institution of the right to defense in the criminal procedure of the Republic of Poland, despite the existence of established normative foundations and a positive track record of adaptation to European standards, continues to face a number of systemic challenges that require further improvement. The Polish model of criminal procedure, which is based on the principles of adversarial proceedings and equality of the parties, does not always ensure the proper realization of the defendant’s right to effective defense in practice. This is particularly evident at the early stages of pre-trial proceedings, where detainees may encounter restrictions in access to legal counsel or case materials. Originality. The research has established that changes in the criminal procedural legislation of the Republic of Poland have effectively shifted the responsibility for the outcome of the trial from the court to the parties involved. This model continues to provoke serious debate across Europe. In particular, concerns have been raised regarding the deterioration of the procedural status of the most vulnerable segments of the population. Therefore, ensuring that the parties to criminal proceedings are afforded the right to defense – both in substantive and procedural terms – at all stages is of critical importance in shaping reliable standards for a new adversarial model of criminal justice, more so than ever before. The scale of these changes remains largely unknown to the public, and their implications are often underestimated. Practical significance. The results of the study may be used in the development of provisions, conclusions, and recommendations aimed at improving the criminal procedural legislation of Ukraine.

Key words: criminal procedure law, defence counsel, right to a defence in criminal proceedings, implementation of the right to a defence in criminal proceedings, international standards for the implementation of the right to a defence, pre-trial investigation, judicial proceedings.

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