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eu-charter

EU Charter of Fundamental Rights

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Title VI

Justice

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  • Article 47 - Right to an effective remedy and to a fair trial
    Everyone whose rights and freedoms guaranteed by the law of the Union are violated has the right to an effective remedy before a tribunal in compliance with the conditions laid down in this Article.
    Everyone is entitled to a fair and public hearing within a reasonable time by an independent and impartial tribunal previously established by law. Everyone shall have the possibility of being advised, defended and represented.
    Legal aid shall be made available to those who lack sufficient resources in so far as such aid is necessary to ensure effective access to justice.
  • Article 48 - Presumption of innocence and right of defence

    1. Everyone who has been charged shall be presumed innocent until proved guilty according to law.
    2. Respect for the rights of the defence of anyone who has been charged shall be guaranteed.

  • Article 49 - Principles of legality and proportionality of criminal offences and penalties

    1. No one shall be held guilty of any criminal offence on account of any act or omission which did not constitute a criminal offence under national law or international law at the time when it was committed. Nor shall a heavier penalty be imposed than the one that was applicable at the time the criminal offence was committed. If, subsequent to the commission of a criminal offence, the law provides for a lighter penalty, that shall be applicable.
    2. This Article shall not prejudice the trial and punishment of any person for any act or omission which, at the time when it was committed, was criminal according to the general principles recognised by the community of nations.
    3. The severity of penalties must not be disproportionate to the criminal offence.

  • Article 50 - Right not to be tried or punished twice in criminal proceedings for the same criminal offence

    No one shall be liable to be tried or punished again in criminal proceedings for an offence for which he or she has already been finally acquitted or convicted within the Union in accordance with the law.

Previous title

Title VI

Justice

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