Solid basic training and encouraging independent thinking in criminal law

In the ‘Criminal Law General Section II’ and ‘Criminal Procedure Law’ classes, Anna Coninx discusses fundamental issues of substantive criminal law, sanction law and criminal procedure law. For example: In what circumstances is it equally reprehensible to allow a person to die or to actively kill them? How can custodial sentences be convincingly justified and how do they differ from other measures, such as custody? Are preventative criminal procedure reasons for arrest a legitimate way of preventing crime, and if so, to what extent? In her lectures and annual seminars, as well as conveying knowledge Anna Coninx also focuses on empowering students to examine the merits of arguments, think independently and present opinions in a coherent form.

Research specialisms

Anna Coninx’s research particularly focuses on preventative measures beyond penal sentences. Examples range from custody, deportation, work prohibitions and suspension of driver’s licences to criminal procedure preventative detention or welfare accommo­dation in order to protect against endangerment by others. Her research approach sits at the intersection between criminal law, administrative law, adult protection law and the doctrine of basic rights.

Another of Anna Coninx’s research specialisms is legislation on sexual offences. Whilst sexual morals were in the past a reason for criminalisation, today we ask whether the parties involved have consented to particular sexual acts. In this context and given the ratification of international agreements, Anna Coninx critically examines fundamental issues and specific legislative proposals. For example, what can be taken from the federal council’s proposal to formulate the facts of rape cases in gender-neutral language, or can incest be convincingly justified?