Resumen de Prescrizione processuale e ne bis in idem: L’efficacia preclusiva del giudicato alla prova del tempo
Time is a factor capable of influencing the outcome of criminal proceedings or even determining a specific decision to be delivered. This paper aims at analysing the difficult relationship between time-based decisions and the principle of ne bis in idem within a domestic and a transnational perspective. In particular, this study will focus on the binding effects produced by the new ruling set out by article 344-bis Cpp, which provides for the conclusion of appeal proceedings due to excessive laps of time. Therefore, after the time prescribed by the rule, appeal proceedings are concluded with a procedural decision which substantially produces the extinction of the criminal trial. In the light of this, it is questionable whether this kind of ruling will ensure the right of the accused not to be prosecuted again for the same facts. The problem gains even more relevance if we focus on the transnational dimension of the ne bis in idem principle, which requires a determination as to the merits of the case to avoid the possible institution of a second proceeding in another country.
