Prokuratury

Prokuratury, in Poland and in some other countries with civil-law traditions, are state institutions responsible for public prosecution and related activities. Their primary tasks include conducting or supervising criminal investigations, preparing indictments, and representing the state in criminal trials and certain civil proceedings. Prosecutor's offices also oversee the legality of actions taken by police and other public authorities, and can initiate measures to protect public and individual rights when required.

In Poland the prosecutorial system is organized as a hierarchical network. The central body is the Prokuratura Krajowa (National Public Prosecutor's Office), headed by the Prokurator Generalny. Below it are regional and district offices, such as prokuratury okręgowe (regional/prosecutorial districts) and prokuratury rejonowe (district/prosecutorial local offices), as well as prokuratury apelacyjne (prosecutor's offices at the appellate level). The structure also includes specialized units addressing areas like organized crime and economic crime. Each office operates within its assigned jurisdiction but can coordinate with others on larger investigations.

Key functions include directing and supervising police investigations to ensure compliance with the law, deciding whether to press charges or dismiss a case, and representing the State in criminal proceedings. Prosecutors may also file civil actions or undertake legal remedies in matters affecting the public interest. Beyond prosecution, the offices engage in preventive activities, oversee adherence to legal standards by public authorities, and counter violations of constitutional rights when necessary.

The term prokuratury may also refer to analogous prosecutorial bodies in other countries, where prosecutors perform comparable roles as representatives of the state and guardians of legality in the criminal justice system.