Wrongful Convictions in Summary Proceedings: a Comparison of Penal Orders in France, Germany and Switzerland

Abstract

Summary proceedings and especially penal orders have become increasingly relevant in criminal justice systems across Europe. The prosecution holds significant power and convictions cannot guarantee that defendants understand their judgment. This contribution compares laws and empirical data on penal orders in France, Germany and Switzerland, with a focus on the role of the prosecution and the rights of the defence. I argue that while penal orders offer an efficient way of processing minor crimes, they also pose a high risk of erroneous sanctions and wrongful convictions. The contribution concludes that in order to protect the rights of the defence, the balance of power between the prosecution and the defendant needs to be improved by granting a hearing before a judgment is rendered, and by translating the penal order and delivering it in judicial appointments. The findings provide valuable insights into the need for continued reform in the area of summary proceedings.