Criminal justice for children, innovations and problems en-countered in the practice of Albanian courts

Abstract

This article explores the innovations, challenges, and practical implications of the Code of Criminal Justice for Children (CCJC) in Albania, seven years after its implementation. Through the analysis of over 50 court decisions from various jurisdictions, the study assesses the effectiveness of this legal framework in handling cases involving minors in conflict with the law. The research identi-fies positive legislative advancements, such as enhanced procedural guaran-tees and alignment with international standards, but also highlights ongoing issues in consistent application, legal interpretation, and institutional imple-mentation. Notably, discrepancies in judicial practice, gaps in institutional structures, and limited training for legal professionals hinder the full realiza-tion of the Code’s objectives. The article calls for improved judicial consistency, specialized training, and the establishment of support structures to enhance justice for minors. It concludes with recommendations aimed at better har-monization of domestic and international norms, emphasizing the need for dynamic development in legal doctrine and practice related to juvenile justice.