Acquittal on coercion and reasons for a costs order

Supreme Court · Second Chamber (Penal) · 2015

What the Supreme Court considered and decided

The Supreme Court upheld prison staff members’ acquittals on coercion and moral-integrity allegations. It nevertheless set aside costs imposed on the prosecuting parties because their alleged reckless litigation had not been adequately justified.

What this helps explain

Losing an accusation alone does not amount to recklessness; the imposition of costs requires its own justification.

Editorial summary from the official note of the CGPJ. It describes this resolution, without certifying the subsequent evolution of the procedure. It should be read with the legislation applicable to its facts, reforms and subsequent case law.