Chilean Senate approves bill for oral trials in absence of accused

The Chilean Senate has approved in principle a bill that would allow oral trials and the issuance of sentences to proceed even if an accused person fails to appear without justification. Known as the “trial in absence” or “no escape law,” the initiative seeks to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure to prevent legal proceedings from being indefinitely suspended due to a defendant's non-appearance.

The reform aims to avoid automatic temporary dismissals and ensure that the judicial process can reach a conclusion. To safeguard due process, the bill requires valid prior notification, an express warning regarding the consequences of non-attendance, and the mandatory presence of effective legal defense. Additionally, the law would provide police and the Public Ministry with enhanced tools to issue arrest warrants and localization measures following a sentence handed down in absentia.

The project, presented by former Public Security Minister Trinidad Steinert and Minister Fernando Rabat, passed the Senate with 29 votes in favor and 2 against. The Senate will continue discussions on specific amendments, with 57 indications currently submitted, during the following week.