Collecting evidence in cross-border cases can be a difficult task for competent authorities in the different Member States of the European Union. Composed of different legal and judicial systems, the European Union does not have a unique set of rules yet enabling Member States to deal efficiently and uniformly with collection, and recognition of evidence.

Additionally, conditions of execution of investigation requests may be very different from one Member State to the other.

The European Union has adopted some common investigation tools and is also considering simplifying the recognition and execution of national investigation orders in other Member States. This seminar will present the different common investigation tools recognised at the EU level (Joint Investigation Teams, Mutual legal assistance requests, freezing orders etc.) as well as new proposals such as the European Investigation Order.

The analysis of those instruments and practical case studies will generate exchanges amongst participants and experts and sharing of best practices.