ZAGREB, CROATIA – Croatian Justice Minister Ivan Simonovic confirmed that the new Law on Criminal Process will come into effect on July 1, as has been planned. 

- The most important thing is that there are no mistakes. We held a meeting last week and concluded that we are ready to apply the law – Simonovic told a news conference.

He also commented on the novelties in the law and said that major changes related to investigations which the State Prosecution will lead.

- The court will have its role restricted, it will monitor if the rights of the defendants are observed – the minister interpreted.

With regards to the secrecy of investigations, Simonovic said that there was a change to Article 231 of the Law.

- Investigations are not secret, but they are not public – Simonovic said.

- Giving out information is a criminal act. Only participants in the process will be prosecuted, not reporters – he explained.

The minister also said that after the new Law comes in force, illegally obtained evidence will no longer be acceptable in court, such as evidence obtained by extortion or force. This will also be applicable for the most serious of crimes.

State Prosecutor Mladen Bajic explained that after the law comes into effect the police will function has it has so far, the only change is that the State Prosecutor will have the right to select an investigator, especially in the more difficult changes.

- The State Prosecutor finally stops being just an administrative position – Bajic said.