Problematic issues and procedural features of pre-trial investigation of criminal offenses

Abstract

Based on the reviewed scientific literature and current provisions of the relevant legislation, the paper examines the key principles of pre-trial investigation of criminal offenses. The relevance of the topic is determined by the need to optimize the performance of law enforcement agencies and ensure a proper balance between the speed of investigation and the quality of protection of citizens' rights in criminal proceedings. A legal analysis of the specifics of the inquiry is conducted through an investigation of the inquirer’s role, with particular attention paid to critical evidentiary issues within the simplified procedure, specifically focusing on time constraints and the involvement of witnesses. It is substantiated that the institution of criminal offenses, despite its focus on relieving the system, requires clearer legislative regulation to eliminate procedural risks.

The purpose of the article is to study the features of the inquiry procedure and identify practical problems that arise during the collection and consolidation of evidence in the investigation of criminal offenses.

The research methods used include the analysis of scientific literature, the comparative-legal method, and the method of analyzing judicial practice.

As the main results and conclusions, the article analyzes the latest decisions of the Supreme Court regarding the terms of inquiry and review of case materials. It is proved that tight deadlines often lead to a superficial collection of evidence. It is found that the lack of clear regulation of the inquirer's procedural actions under conditions of excessive haste leads to the inadmissibility of evidence in court. It is proposed to introduce mandatory video recording when obtaining explanations and to digitalize the inquirer's workplace in order to speed up the process without losing quality and better protect the rights of case participants. The practical significance of the results lies in the development of specific recommendations for improving the activities of inquirers, which will contribute to increasing the efficiency of pre-trial investigation and compliance with the standards of a fair trial.