The project aims to record and capture the issues which arise in practice during the application of legal aid in criminal trials. For the first time, it will attempt to systematically collect and analyze statistical data and findings, with the assistance of three lawyers who will attend trials and record data, by observing at least 300 felony trials in Athens within a period of one year, at first as well as second instance (appeals phase).
At the same time, a practical guide for legal aid will be published in order to assist citizens and containing all the necessary information in relation to the preconditions and terms for accessing legal aid.
Within the project’s framework, interviews and targeted debates will take place with all individuals involved in a criminal trial (judges, lawyers, defendants-beneficiaries of legal aid) in order to present a complete and spherical view on both the issues that need improvement as well as the changes that can be effective and sustainable.
The data which will be collected during the recording, as well as the comparative study of good practices and institutions of other European countries will also constitute our basic materials for proposals on a legislative and practical level towards the relevant institutional authorities, and especially the Ministry of Justice.