Criminal law in Panama

Criminal law in Panama is mainly based on the Código Penal and the Código Procesal Penal. It addresses conduct considered harmful to people, property, public safety, public administration, and other protected interests. The Ministerio Público, through prosecutors, directs or carries out criminal investigations. Police and other investigative bodies may collect evidence, while judges control important legal decisions and conduct hearings and trials. Panama's accusatory system separates investigation, prosecution, defense, and judicial decision-making. The accused is presumed innocent, and the prosecution generally must prove the charge through lawful evidence. A person questioned or detained has important rights, including the right to know the accusation, remain silent, communicate with a lawyer, and receive legal assistance. The exact rights and procedure depend on the stage and circumstances of the case. Victims may report facts, provide evidence, seek protection, receive information, and participate through the procedures available to them. A victim may also need legal representation to protect personal, financial, or family interests. Criminal cases may involve an initial report, investigative acts, hearings, precautionary measures, formal charges, an intermediate stage, trial, and possible appeals. Not every report reaches trial, and not every dispute belongs in criminal court. Possible outcomes can include dismissal, an agreement allowed by law, a conviction, an acquittal, restitution, restrictions on liberty, or other penalties. Pretrial detention is not the same as a final conviction and must be decided through the legal process. Criminal law has strict limits on self-help and retaliation. A civil disagreement, unpaid debt, family conflict, or workplace problem may require another legal route unless the facts also show a crime.