Proofed

Understand charges/Samba 13-05-21

Suspects advised to appreciate charges preferred against them

A Circuit Court judge at Nkawie in the Atwima Nwabiagya Municipality in the   Ashanti Region, has advised suspects and accused to read and understand the charges preferred against them by prosecutors.

 Mr Michael Johnson Abbey said this would enable suspects and accused to ask questions and to defend themselves properly.

“Efficient understanding of charges, facts and statements given to them by the prosecution, would go a long way for them to ask the appropriate questions and defend themselves during trials”, he stressed.

Mr Abbey said this would help ensure fair, smooth and speedy delivery of justice by the court, while allowing parties to accept trial verdict in good faith.

He made the appeal when accused, standing trial before his court, found himself wanting during his turn to cross examine a prosecution witness questions after he had been served with all the documents and witness statement the prosecution will be relying on.

Mr Abbey said facts, statements and all disclosures are supposed to be given to accused, defendants and witnesses in both criminal and civil cases for their advanced study and preparation before the next adjourned date.

He said having a better understanding of these statements was very essential and helpful, and urged illiterate parties to seek assistance from reliable persons to read and explain such statements and disclosures to them so that they could accept verdicts in good faith. – GNA