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Why must prosecutors act fairly and with restraint in criminal cases?
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Legal profession
Lee Kuan Yew, 1987.
Prosecutors must act with fairness and restraint because they represent the state, which holds a fundamental interest not only in convicting the guilty but also in ensuring the acquittal of the innocent.1
This ethical and legal responsibility requires prosecutors to:
- Disclose Exculpatory Information: They have a duty to share with the defense any known information that could exonerate the defendant or mitigate their punishment.1
- Avoid Unfair Tactics: Prosecutors must refrain from employing trial strategies that could lead to unfair convictions.1
- Maintain Integrity: They should not pursue prosecutions merely to advance their own political interests.1
By adhering to these standards, prosecutors uphold the integrity of the criminal justice system and ensure that the rights of the accused are protected throughout the legal process.12