Monaco has taken a significant step in modernising its criminal justice system with the adoption of legislation introducing plea bargaining and criminal agreements into Monegasque law…
Approved by the National Council on June 11, the reform is designed to accelerate the handling of criminal cases, particularly complex economic and financial matters, while helping the Principality meet evolving international standards in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing.
As reported by Monaco Matin, under the new framework, prosecutors will be able to propose a sentence to individuals who acknowledge their responsibility for an offence. A separate procedure will apply to companies and their representatives, allowing cases to be resolved through an agreement with prosecutors without a formal admission of guilt.
Government officials stressed that the reform is not intended to create a form of “negotiated justice,” but rather to provide a more efficient response in cases where facts are not disputed. Safeguards remain central to the process, with judicial approval required, legal representation guaranteed throughout, and defendants retaining the right to reject any proposal without prejudice.
The legislation was strengthened during parliamentary review, including the decision to exclude crimes from the scope of plea bargaining. Supporters argue the measures will allow courts to focus greater resources on the most complex cases, while reinforcing Monaco’s commitment to transparency and international compliance.
