Towards a Comprehensive Definition of Effective Criminal Defense. A Critical Analysis of Inter-American Court Jurisprudence

Núñez S.; Espinoza Escobar J.H. · Cuestiones Constitucionales (2026) · DOI: 10.22201/iij.24484881e.2026.55.19825

Resumen

This research examines the right to an effective criminal defense within the framework of rulings by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. While recognized as a fundamental guarantee of criminal proceedings, its interpretation and application reveal gaps and inconsistencies that create legal uncertainty and complicate its implementation within the judicial systems of Member States. The main objective of the study is to identify and substantiate the constitutive elements of this right. Using a qualitative methodology, six landmark rulings of the Court are critically analyzed. An inductive approach allows for the identification of recurring patterns and conceptual deficiencies. The study proposes four essential elements to clarify and strengthen this right: strategic planning, a critical approach to procedural actions, execution of necessary and relevant procedural acts, and the exclusive protection of the defendant’s rights. © Esta obra está bajo una licencia internacional Creative Commons Atribución-NoComercial 4.0.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/

Instituciones: Universidad Privada Norbert Wiener