Pardon in german law

Abstract

In modern Germany, a secular state with a republican form of government, there is still the institution of pardon, known in the pre-Christian era. Under the current Constitution of Germany pardon is carried out by the President of Germany, the decision is not subject to judicial review. The relationship of mercy and justice has been controversial for centuries. Opinions differ in literature and court practice, up to the Federal Constitutional Court of Germany. A retrospective of the historical development of the practice of pardon, the analysis of the goals and consequences of this measure convincingly prove the need for the possibility of judicial review of clemency decisions enshrined in the legislation. This is the only effective way to prevent arbitrariness, abuse of power and violation of human rights. The modern legal state should not allow the negative experience of past dictatorships and monarchies.