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Right to an effective remedy and to a fair trial

Know your rights

Everyone whose rights and freedoms guaranteed by the law of the Union are violated has the right to an effective remedy before a tribunal in compliance with the conditions laid down in this Article.

Everyone is entitled to a fair and public hearing within a reasonable time by an independent and impartial tribunal previously established by law. Everyone shall have the possibility of being advised, defended and represented.

Legal aid shall be made available to those who lack sufficient resources in so far as such aid is necessary to ensure effective access to justice.

This right is enshrined in article 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights.

What to do if your rights have been breached

The authorities of EU countries are bound to comply with the Charter of fundamental rights only when implementing EU law. Fundamental rights are protected by your country's constitution.

What the Commission is doing to protect your rights

Law

Directive 2012/13/EU on the right of information in criminal proceedings.

Directive 2010/64/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council
on the right to interpretation and translation in criminal proceedings.

Documents

4 MAY 2017
EU Charter of Fundamental Rights infograph - where to go in case of breach?
English
(289.74 KB - PDF)
Download