Criminal law in Costa Rica

Costa Rican criminal law is based on the Código Penal and criminal procedure rules. It defines offenses and penalties while requiring public authorities to respect constitutional and procedural rights. Police may receive reports, protect people, preserve a scene, and gather initial information. The Ministerio Público, also called the Fiscalía, directs criminal prosecutions and decides how an investigation should proceed within the law. A denuncia is a report of suspected criminal conduct. A victim may also have additional procedural options, including participation through legal representation and, in suitable cases, a claim connected to the harm caused. A person under investigation has rights, including the right to know the accusation, remain silent, receive legal defense, and challenge the evidence through the proper procedure. People who cannot obtain private representation may qualify for the Defensa Pública. A judge controls important measures that affect liberty and other fundamental rights. Detention before trial is not the same as punishment and must be distinguished from a sentence following conviction. Evidence may include testimony, documents, digital records, expert analysis, objects, and medical findings. Its lawful collection, preservation, reliability, and connection to the alleged event can all matter. Criminal proceedings can include investigation, formal hearings, trial, review, and enforcement of a judgment. Some cases may have lawful alternative outcomes, but their availability depends on the offense, harm, history, and approval required by the procedure. Victims can seek protection and information, while accused people retain the presumption of innocence. Both sides should avoid public claims or private actions that endanger safety, evidence, or a fair process.