Rules on Summary Investigation Expedited Preliminary Investigation Preliminary Investigation Inquest

Detailed analysis of the Department of Justice's reforms governing criminal investigations and prosecutorial appeals, specifically examining Department Circulars 027 (2022), 015 (2024), and 028 (2024)
This discussion covers three key investigative frameworks:
1. Regular Preliminary Investigation (6 years + 1 day)
• Quantum of evidence: "prima facie evidence with reasonable certainty of conviction"
• 60-day resolution period with 30-day extension for complex cases
2. Expedited Preliminary Investigation (1 year + 1 day to 6 years)
• 20-day resolution framework
• Limitations on pleadings & motions, and jurisdictional requirements
3. Summary Investigation (1 day to 1 year)
• Ex parte proceedings
Critical focus areas include:
• Prosecutorial review mechanisms and hierarchical appeals
• Virtual proceedings implementation and requirements
• Inquest procedures and warrantless arrest considerations
• Article 125 implications and procedural timelines
• Crespo v. Mogul doctrine applications
• Jurisdictional shifts between prosecution and courts


Rule on Appeal from rulings of prosecutors in the National Prosecution Service (NPS) Department Circular 027 dated July 13, 2022
2024 DOJ-NPS Rules on Preliminary Investigations and Inquest Proceedings Department Circular 015 dated July 16, 2024
2024 DOJ-NPS Rules on Summary Investigation and Expedited Preliminary Investigation Department Circular 028 dated November 13, 2024