Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure
Criminal law
Master the principle of legality (nullum crimen sine lege), the structure of the offence (conduct, unlawfulness, guilt), and the forms of participation (author, co-author, instigator, accomplice). Distinguish intentional from negligent conduct and know the defences (self-defence, necessity, incapacity, mistake). Study the rules on attempt, concurrence of offences, and the purposes and limits of penalties.
Criminal procedure
Understand the phases: investigation, instruction, trial, and appeal. Know the roles of the Public Prosecutor (who directs the investigation) and the investigating judge (who oversees coercive measures). Learn the coercive measures (detention, pre-trial custody, bail) and their time limits and judicial control. Know the rights of the accused (silence, counsel, presumption of innocence) and the rules on evidence and its lawfulness.
Traps
Questions test whether a measure requires prior judicial authorisation, and the distinction between flagrant offence and ordinary investigation. Watch for confusion between the instigator (who creates the intent) and the accomplice (who aids).
Rule of thumb
For any coercive measure, ask: who authorises it, for how long, and what is the remedy? Pre-trial custody is exceptional and must be judicially reviewed within statutory limits.