Judicial oversight and prosecutorial discretion in effective cooperation agreements in Ecuador: a critical perspective
Keywords:
Cooperation agreement, effective cooperation, judicial control, prosecutorial discretionAbstract
This study critically analyzes the discretion exercised by the Office of the Attorney General and judicial oversight in effective cooperation agreements in Ecuador from a legal and doctrinal perspective. Its objective is to examine the legal framework governing both institutions in order to determine their scope, limitations, and implications for the principles of legality, equality, legal certainty, and due process. To this end, the research examines the conceptual foundations, requirements, elements, and legal framework of effective cooperation, as well as the scope of prosecutorial discretion in negotiating cooperation agreements and the role of judicial review as a safeguard against the exercise of such discretion. The study adopts a qualitative approach based on the doctrinal legal method and a critical analysis of legislation, case law, legal scholarship, and applicable international instruments. The findings demonstrate that effective cooperation is an essential mechanism for investigating complex crimes; however, its legal regulation contains significant gaps regarding the procedure for concluding agreements, the objective assessment of the effectiveness of cooperation, the proportionality of the benefits granted, and the scope of judicial review. Based on these findings, the study proposes a reform of the Organic Comprehensive Criminal Code aimed at strengthening judicial oversight, establishing objective criteria for the actions of the Office of the Attorney General, and ensuring a more transparent, consistent, and rights-based application of effective cooperation agreements.
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