Criminal law in Morocco

Moroccan criminal law is based mainly on written legal rules. The Code pénal defines offenses and penalties, while the Code de procédure pénale governs investigation, prosecution, trial, and important procedural safeguards. Criminal offenses are commonly grouped by seriousness into contraventions, délits, and crimes. This classification affects the competent court, the procedure, and the range of possible consequences. A case may begin with a complaint, a police report, an observed event, or information received by the prosecution service. Police officers gather facts under legal supervision, while the public prosecutor decides or directs important steps in many cases. For more serious or complex matters, a formal judicial investigation may occur. An investigating judge can examine evidence, hear people, and make procedural decisions without taking over the final role of the trial court. A suspect or accused person has procedural rights, including the right to understand the accusation and present a defense. Access to a lawyer and interpretation can be especially important when liberty, language, or serious penalties are involved. Victims can report offenses, provide evidence, and may seek compensation within or alongside the criminal process. Medical records, photographs, messages, receipts, and witness details can help establish harm and responsibility. The court evaluates admissible evidence and applies the law to the proven facts. A judgment may acquit the accused or impose consequences such as a fine, imprisonment, another legal measure, and compensation where appropriate. Review or appeal may be available under procedural rules. Criminal records and judgments can also affect employment, travel, family matters, or immigration, which makes early and accurate legal advice valuable.