The Government does not use forced exile. The Constitution provides for an independent judiciary, and it is independent in practice. Appeals can be made to the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and to the Privy Council in the United Kingdom. The law provides for public trial before an independent, impartial court. Criminal defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty, are allowed legal counsel, and have the right to appeal.
Courts provide free legal counsel to the indigent only in capital cases.
There were no reports of political prisoners. The Constitution provides for the right of free expression, and the Government respects this in practice. The political opposition openly criticizes the Government. There is also an independent radio station owned by the Catholic Church. Citizens also have access to independent news sources through cable television and radio reception from neighboring islands.