Prison conditions meet or exceed minimum international standards, and the Government permits visits by human rights monitors. The Constitution bars arbitrary arrest. Arrest warrants are required, except when a suspect is arrested while committing an offense. The police must bring detainees before a judge within 24 hours to be informed of the charges against them and of their rights under the law. Most detainees are released without bail, but the investigating magistrate may order detention on grounds that the suspect might either flee or interfere with the investigation of the case.
Detainees have the right to counsel, at public expense if necessary.
The magistrate may permit family members to see detainees. The Government does not exile its own nationals forcibly. However, sometimes it does expel non-Monegasque nationals who are in violation of residency laws or who have committed minor offenses, such as disorderly conduct. The law provides for a fair, public trial, and the authorities respect these provisions. The defendant has the right to be present and the right to counsel, at public expense if necessary.