Criminal law in Lithuania

Lithuanian criminal law identifies conduct treated as a criminal offence and the sanctions a court may impose. The Criminal Code, called Baudžiamasis kodeksas in Lithuanian, provides the main substantive framework. Criminal responsibility normally requires legally prohibited conduct and the required form of fault. Intention, negligence, attempt, participation, self-defence, age, and mental capacity can affect whether and how a person is responsible. Criminal offences differ in nature and seriousness. Possible legal consequences include non-custodial measures, financial sanctions, restrictions, or imprisonment, but only the competent court determines guilt and sentence. A case may begin with a report, police action, or information received by an authority. Investigators gather evidence, while a prosecutor supervises or directs important parts of the pre-trial process and decides how the prosecution proceeds. A suspect or accused person has the right to understand the allegation, remain silent, obtain legal assistance, and challenge procedural decisions through the available channels. An interpreter should be requested when the person cannot understand the proceedings adequately. A victim may report the offence, provide evidence, ask for information, seek protective measures, and pursue compensation through the appropriate procedure. The precise role depends on formal recognition and the type of case. Evidence can include statements, documents, digital material, expert findings, and physical objects. Its lawful collection, reliability, and relevance matter, and private persons should preserve rather than alter potential evidence. Courts examine the charge and defence and decide the case independently. Review by a higher court may be available, but the correct form and procedural requirements depend on the decision. Criminal proceedings can seriously affect liberty, reputation, family, and work. Early legal help is especially important after arrest, questioning, a search, seizure of property, or receipt of formal suspicion documents.