The historico-legal development of the concept of corporate criminal liability and responsibility

Abstract

The main aim of the thesis is to focus on the historical and legal development of the legislative aspect of corporate criminal liability and responsibility. The thesis is divided into four separate chapters. The first chapter deals with the concept of the corporate entity. It mainly deals with the qualifications and characteristics of the corporate body in general. In the second chapter the thesis provides a historical overview explaining the progress done through common law countries such as the United States, England and Wales. Brief reference is also made to European Union Law. The next chapter treats a historical background of the Maltese legislative position. The Criminal Code, the Official Secrets Act and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act are also considered. The last chapter provides a brief evaluation. The evaluation seeks to interlink the first three chapters focusing on possibilities which may lead to further developments and improvements which can eventually take place in this area of study.