Morocco has just taken a major step in overhauling its justice system with the adoption of Law No. 03-23, a sweeping reform of the country’s criminal procedure code. Officially published on September 8, 2025, this legislation is a cornerstone of the kingdom’s broader effort to modernize its institutions. The reform reflects the vision set forth by King Mohammed VI, who has consistently emphasized the importance of strengthening the rule of law as a foundation for Morocco’s democratic development.
The new law is the result of years of careful planning and consultation. It embodies the monarch’s strategic directives for justice reform and sets the stage for a more coherent and effective criminal policy. At its core is a clear ambition: to create a justice system that is fairer, faster, more accessible, and deeply anchored in the protection of fundamental rights. This vision is fully aligned with the principles laid out in Morocco’s 2011 Constitution, which places individual and collective freedoms at the heart of the country’s institutional framework.
Among the most significant changes is a reinforced commitment to the right to a fair trial. The updated legal framework places greater emphasis on the presumption of innocence and ensures that verdicts are delivered within reasonable timeframes. Legal aid—vital for maintaining a level playing field—is being expanded, offering broader access to defense for those who need it most. The right to legal representation is no longer just a formality—it’s being solidified as a practical guarantee.
One of the reform’s most impactful measures targets the use of pretrial detention, a long-standing concern within the justice system. Under the new rules, judges will now be required to justify any decision to detain someone before trial, and such measures will be restricted to cases where they are absolutely necessary. In parallel, the law introduces a range of alternative options aimed at reducing unnecessary incarceration and easing the burden on Morocco’s prison system.
The law also tightens regulations around police custody, a pivotal moment in the legal process. Suspects must be immediately informed of their rights, including access to a lawyer from the very beginning of the investigation. If necessary, an interpreter must be provided, and stronger safeguards have been put in place to prevent abuse or coercion during this stage.
Victims of crime are also given new rights and protections under the reform. They will now receive more comprehensive updates throughout the legal process, along with improved legal and social support services. Special provisions have been added to better protect women and children facing violence, with a more sensitive and proactive approach to their cases.
To ensure accountability and provide data-driven insights into crime and justice trends, the reform includes the creation of a National Crime Observatory. This scientific body will analyze patterns in criminal activity, help inform policy decisions, and provide lawmakers with reliable data to shape future reforms.
This legislation is just one part of a wider transformation of Morocco’s legal landscape. Other ongoing initiatives include the revision of the penal code, modernization of legal professions, and a gradual rollout of digital infrastructure across the country’s court system.
Taken together, these efforts signal Morocco’s clear intent to build a justice system that meets international standards and serves the needs of its citizens. By 2030, the government aims to align these reforms with its broader national development strategy, reinforcing both the credibility and effectiveness of the judiciary.
