Criminal law in Cyprus

Criminal law is a branch of law that regulates social relations related to the commission of criminal offence and the imposition of penalties for their commission. This section will consider the main characteristics of the criminal law in Cyprus.

A criminal offense shall mean a socially dangerous culpable act. Crime can be directed both at a single individual and at a social group of people. The purpose of criminal law is to protect society from such harm by punishing criminals.

Cyprus criminal law is based on the many fundamental principles and it is heavily influenced by the English Common Law.

The duty of the law of criminal procedure is to protect the fundamental human rights and freedoms as enshrined by the constitution of the Republic of Cyprus. Human rights and freedoms are set out in the Cyprus Penal Code, which is a codification of the country’s criminal law. The main purpose of this codification is to protect the constitutional rights and freedoms of the citizens of Cyprus.

Criminal cases may be handled differently in different jurisdictions : District Courts, Assize Courts, The Supreme Court. As an appellate court the Supreme Court can review and re-examine all the evidence, request or admit other evidence and order cases to be reheard.

Penalties for criminal offenses include imprisonment, fines, restitution, community service, probation, house arrest, inpatient drug/alcohol rehabilitation, inpatient psychiatric treatment, work release. The relevant factors to consider when sentencing an offender would be the crime(s) of conviction and the offender’s criminal history. Criminal offenses are an offense under the Cyprus Penal Code.

Types of criminal offenses under Cyprus law:

• Child abuse, domestic abuse, kidnapping;
• Burglary, larceny, robbery, auto theft;
• Alcohol related crimes, drug crimes;
• Financial and Other Crimes

The criminal process is complicated, complex and multi-stage, therefore it requires high-quality legal assistance. The Hadjivangeli team offers you professional support and protection of your rights in court and other authorities. Our exceptional team of attorneys takes client care seriously. We will represent and defend your rights and interests during criminal proceedings in the best professional way.

We draw your attention to the fact that this article is for informational purposes only. For more advice, contact us at the contacts listed on the site.