'The Compilation of Evidence: Scope, Procedure and Limitations'

Author: Judge Emeritus Silvio Meli

Publisher: Kite Group

Pages: 128

A new bilingual publication by Judge Emeritus Silvio Meli, titled The Compilation of Evidence: Scope, Procedure and Limitations / Il-Kumpilazzjoni: Skop, Proċedura u Limitazzjonijiet, has just been released by Kite Group (2025). This volume serves as both a practical guide and a reflective analysis of one of the most crucial stages in the Maltese criminal justice system - the compilation of evidence. Written in clear, accessible language and presented in both English and Maltese, the book offers an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complex mechanisms involved in the collection, analysis, and presentation of evidence before the Courts of Justice.

Judge Emeritus Meli's work is distinguished by its pragmatic approach.

Rather than adopting a purely theoretical stance, it focuses on the everyday realities of how the compilation of evidence unfolds in practice. It provides a step-by-step understanding of how evidence is gathered and assessed, how witnesses are presented, and how the process fits within the wider framework of criminal proceedings. The author also highlights the delicate balance between the rights of the accused, the responsibilities of the prosecution, and the duty of the judiciary to ensure that justice is both done and seen to be done.

This handbook aims to serve as a vademecum - a ready reference for all those involved in the process. Judges, magistrates, lawyers from both the prosecution and defence, members of the Police Force, court officials, victims, the accused, law students, and even the general public will find in this book a clear explanation of how the system operates and what safeguards exist to ensure fairness and transparency. Judge Meli also draws attention to the potential procedural pitfalls that may arise, offering through his experience on the bench valuable insights.

At its heart, the book seeks to demystify what is often perceived as a highly technical process. It strives to simplify the complexities of the compilation of evidence, promote openness within the judicial system, and underline the importance of maintaining an equitable balance between thorough investigation and respect for legal rights. Beyond its immediate educational and practical value, the work also engages with the ongoing discussion about the need for reform. Judge Meli sheds light on issues that have long been recognised as in need of attention, echoing calls for change that have persisted for the past four decades.

In his endorsement, Professor Stefano Filletti, head of the Department of Criminal Law at the University of Malta, praised the book as "a comprehensive explanation of the entire process involved. This opus has a very positive value as it provides a clear and systematic guide to this delicate stage of criminal proceedings - too often erroneously regarded as being purely technical. This well-crafted handbook will certainly be of assistance to the legal profession, to students, to the police, and to all those with a genuine interest in this particular aspect of the judicial process. It will help readers understand the intricacies of these proceedings, how the procedure actually works in practice, what rights are involved, and ultimately, what the true purpose of the process is".

Through this important contribution, Judge Emeritus Meli continues his lifelong commitment to fostering greater understanding, fairness, and accessibility within the Maltese legal system. The Compilation of Evidence: Scope, Procedure and Limitations is destined to become a standard reference for professionals and scholars alike, while also serving as a bridge between the world of law and the wider public it seeks to serve.