Japan's Cabinet has approved a revision to the retrial system. The move addresses long-standing criticism that prosecutors' right to appeal prolongs court procedures for those seeking retrials, sometimes for decades.
Japan's Cabinet approved a revision to the controversial retrial system on May 15, 2026. The Justice Ministry-led changes aim to streamline procedures for people seeking retrials after wrongful convictions.
Critics have long argued that prosecutors' right to appeal drags out retrial cases, sometimes lasting decades. LDP lawmaker Shoshi Maekawa has raised the issue in the Diet.
The bill will now move to parliamentary debate. Supporters hope the updates will improve fairness in the justice system.
