Validating the Normative Value and Legal Recognition of the Principle of Equality of Arms in Criminal Proceedings in Botswana

Autor:	Rowland J.V. Cole
Rok vydání:	2011
Předmět:	Value (ethics) Adversarial system Human rights Jurisprudence Law media_common.quotation_subject Political science Common law Foundation (evidence) Normative Criminal procedure media_common
Zdroj:	Journal of African Law. 56:68-86
ISSN:	1464-3731 0021-8553
DOI:	10.1017/s0021855311000222
Popis:	The principle of equality of arms is firmly entrenched in the jurisprudence of international tribunals, but hardly at all in domestic systems. This article argues for the principle to be applied in Botswana's adversarial system, as a way of ensuring procedural equality and enhancing fair trials. After examining the normative value of the principle, the article refers to a number of domestic jurisdictions that have applied the principle. It also examines the general acceptability of equality and fairness in Botswana case law. This represents a foundation for applying the principle in Botswana. The principle was developed by the European Court of Human Rights, creating its own concept of fairness in trials, irrespective of the position in domestic systems. Since the principle is of international origin, it is necessary to note that “judicial territoriality” and Botswana's dualist system do not pose obstacles to the application of the principle.
Databáze:	OpenAIRE
Externí odkaz:	https://explore.openaire.eu/search/publication?articleId=doi_________::58e6220a867198040b0c46c901d2f6ed https://doi.org/10.1017/s0021855311000222 Zobrazit plný text záznamu