Successful "First Conference on Legal Updates on Criminal Law and Criminal Procedural Law for Minors" at UMECIT

On August 31, the "First Legal Update Conference on Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure Law for Minors" was held with great success, with the participation of 48 students of the Bachelor's Degree in Law and Political Sciences from the Santiago campus, along with students from other campuses nationwide. The event's main objective was to analyze the most relevant laws on the criminal responsibility of young people and adolescents, offering a space for learning and reflection for future legal professionals.

The event featured distinguished speakers who addressed key issues in the field of juvenile criminal law, highlighting its importance in the protection of minors within the judicial system:

• Master Eric Arturo Matute Anrria: He spoke about «The role of the Juvenile Criminal Prosecutor in the Juvenile Criminal Justice System», detailing the functions of the prosecutor in defending the rights of minors and his role in the search for balanced justice.
• Master Norilsa Batista Medina: Addressed «The Role of the Social Worker as an Expert in the Courts of Justice», highlighting the relevance of the social worker's intervention in judicial processes and his or her contribution as an expert in cases of adolescents in conflict with the law.
• Master Jennifer Araúz Bogantes: Presented «Challenges and Updates of Law 409 of 2023 Establishing the Comprehensive Protection System for Children and Adolescents», offering an updated view on legal reforms and the challenges of their implementation to ensure the protection of minors.
• Master Evelyn Rocío Gordillo J.: Presented «Case Theory as an Essential Tool in the Criminal Process of Adolescents», stressing the importance of preparing a sound theory of the case to achieve an effective defense and protect the procedural rights of minors.
• Master Rodalys Massiel Atencio: Closed with «The Jurisdiction of the Juvenile Criminal Court in Accordance with Law 40 of 1999», making a detailed analysis of the powers of the juvenile criminal judge and how this regulation guarantees a fair and specialized trial for minors.

The impact of this event was significant, as it improved students' knowledge and trained them in the latest reforms and good practices in juvenile criminal law. Participants acquired key tools to ensure the protection of minors' rights and the correct application of the laws in their future professional practices.

This event not only reinforces efficiency in judicial practice, but also raises awareness of the importance of ongoing training, promoting a more just and equitable juvenile justice system that contributes to the social reintegration of minors and the reduction of recidivism. This consolidates a commitment to justice and the protection of children and adolescents in Panama.