Perception of Application of the Principle of Mutual Recognition in Enforcement of Confiscation Orders Issued in Criminal Proceedings by European Union Member States in Latvia

Objectives*
The principle of mutual recognition is a core principle in EU criminal law which provides a free movement of
judgments execution in criminal proceedings within the European Union. The main aims of this article are to
explore, examine, and analyze the essence and forms of the application of the principle of mutual recognition
to facilitate the recognition and enforcement of confiscation orders issued by European Union Member States
in criminal proceedings as well as the procedures for rendering such judgments enforceable in Latvia. Within
the context of latest development of Union’s area of freedom security and justice it is vital to identify routes
ahead and offer suggestions for improvement of the existing legal system.
Materials and Methods
The research has employed methods of legal interpretation to analyze legislation and the inductive and deductive method to draw conclusions and formulate suggestions.
Results
The effective application of the principle of mutual recognition is seen as crucial for enhancing the overall
effectiveness of the criminal justice system in Latvia. The research highlights the need for ongoing dialogue
between EU member states to address discrepancies in court practices and interpretations of the principle of
mutual recognition. It is necessary to supplement the legal framework of mutual recognition in criminal matters
with a clear definition of the following terms: mutual recognition and mutual trust.
Conclusions
The proper implementation of principle of mutual recognition can enhance legal cooperation, streamline processes, and ultimately strengthen the integrity of the criminal justice system in Latvia. Inconsistent interpretations and applications of the principle across different Latvian courts create barriers to a unified perception of
mutual recognition. Establishing clear guidelines and fostering a shared understanding among judicial authorities is essential to mitigate these discrepancies.