La falta de notificación al investigado en la audiencia de formulación de cargos y su incidencia en la prescripción de la acción penal en el sistema procesal penal ecuatoriano

Abstract

Abstract: This study analyzes the legal consequences arising from the failure to notify the person under investigation of the hearing to formally present charges within the Ecuadorian criminal process, as well as the impact of this failure on the statute of limitations for criminal prosecution. It examines the doctrinal, statutory, and jurisprudential foundations regarding notification as a guarantee of due process, the formal presentation of charges as the act initiating criminal proceedings, and the statute of limitations as a limit on the exercise of the State's punitive power. The research demonstrates that deficiencies in the notification process lead to undue delays that can result in the expiration of the statute of limitations, thereby infringing upon the accused's right to a defense and the victim's rights to truth, justice, and reparation. Consequently, the study highlights the need to strengthen institutional and regulatory mechanisms to ensure the effectiveness of criminal proceedings and prevent impunity.