EU Member States have largely implemented, and started applying, three instruments on transferring prison sentences, probation measures and alternative sanctions, as well as pre-trial supervision measures, to other Member States. This report provides an overview of their first experiences with these measures, highlighting both best practices and shortcomings.

Protecting the human rights of individuals subject to criminal proceedings is an essential element of the rule of law. Persons who are suspected or accused of crimes in countries other than their own are particularly vulnerable, making appropriate procedural safeguards especially crucial. This report reviews Member States’ legal frameworks, policies and practices regarding the important rights provided in these directives, including with respect to individuals whose needs may require additional attention, such as persons with disabilities and children.

Der Zugang zur Justiz ist ein bedeutendes Element der Rechtsstaatlichkeit. Einzelne erhalten so die
Möglichkeit, sich gegen eine Verletzung ihrer Rechte zu schützen, im Falle unerlaubter Handlungen
Rechtsbehelfe geltend zu machen, die Exekutive zur Verantwortung zu ziehen und sich selbst in
Strafsachen zu verteidigen. Dieses Handbuch fasst die zentralen Grundsätze des europäischen
Rechts im Bereich des Zugangs zur Justiz zusammen.

Access to justice is an important element of the rule of law. It enables individuals to protect themselves against infringements of their rights, to remedy civil wrongs, to hold executive power accountable and to defend themselves in criminal proceedings. This handbook summarises the key European legal principles in the area of access to justice, focusing on civil and criminal law.