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Two lectures, rich practical experience and a look behind the scenes of judicial decision-making and the functioning of non-profit organizations that help victims of crimes. This was a meeting of students of the Faculty of Law of the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen with the judge of the Supreme Court of the Czech Republic Tomáš Durdík, who returned to the faculty as its successful graduate.

The first lecture focused on the crime of domestic violence, dangerous stalking and general protection of personal rights and freedoms. “These topics are receiving increasing attention today, including in connection with the upcoming legislative change,” Durdík pointed out. He was referring to the draft law on domestic violence, which the government approved last year. The new legislation aims to strengthen the protection of victims, unify the approach of courts and institutions and ensure quick and effective assistance to those who need it.

Durdík did not limit himself to paragraphs – he also introduced the students to practice. And not only in the judicial sector, but also in the non-profit sector. As vice president and legal advisor of the Bílý kruh bezpečí association, he helps victims of crimes himself. He shares his experiences with them and advises them in difficult life situations. “We greatly appreciated both the theoretical knowledge of the lecturer and, in particular, his rich practical experience,” confirmed a 3rd-year student after the lecture.

The second part of the meeting focused on the procedural side of criminal law – that is, what happens after a verdict is issued. The students learned more about the procedure for executing a verdict, the possibilities for erasing a conviction, and cooperation between the courts, the Probation and Mediation Service, and the Prison Service of the Czech Republic.

Erasure of a conviction – the possibility of “erasing a criminal record” – is nothing new in Czech law. “A similar institution existed as early as the 18th century and was even regulated by a separate law during the First Republic,” added 4th-year student Roman after the lecture. Today, it is regulated by Section 105 of the Criminal Code. Although it has not changed much over the years, its application is often accompanied by complications. Durdík pointed them out so that students know what they might encounter in practice.