Does the Slovak Republic Fulfil European Requirements on Recognition of Foreign Decisions on Custodial Sentences?

Abstract

Summary Mutual recognition of judicial decisions in criminal matters permits decisions to move from one European State to another. It is a key element for the development of judicial co-operation in criminal matters in the European Union. Its implementation, including recognition of judgments on custodial sentences, was one of the main areas of European Union activity regarding criminal justice. The Slovak Republic has implemented European requirements. The question which begs consideration is whether Slovak national law fulfils such requirements and if they are applicable in Slovak legal practice. The assessment of national implementation of European requirements on recognition of judgments on custodial sentences and its applicability in Slovak legal practice is therefore needed. The paper analyses relevant literature, legislation, case-law and related official documents of the European Union. Moreover, it compares Slovak national law with European requirements. At the outset it briefly assets historical background of the mechanism. In principle, the system works, but there is the possibility for its enhancement..