Corruption-related offences are generally punishable by at least one years’ imprisonment. As there are no sentencing guidelines in Malta, judges enjoy relatively broad discretion in determining aggravating and mitigating circumstances at sentencing and can go below the statutory minimum in “special and exceptional” cases. Depending on the gravity of the offence, consideration is given to whether the person charged has actively cooperated with the police or filed an early guilty plea; more than one circumstance would generally need to be present for a judicial determination of aggravating or mitigating circumstances. Public officials with heightened obligations, such as the police, face potentially higher penalties due to their functions. Judges are not bound by precedent; however, decisions of the Court of Criminal Appeals are persuasive. Certain observations were raised concerning the legal framework on immunities and/or jurisdictional privileges granted to Maltese public officials. In this context the reviewers reiterated the importance of striking an appropriate balance between such immunities or privileges and the effective investigation, prosecution and adjudication of corruption offences. The Attorney General, whose independence is granted under the Constitution’s Articles 91 (5) and 97 (2), is the Prosecutor General. The Police can prosecute cases carrying a punishment of no more than 4 years’ imprisonment before the Court of Magistrates and, in cases carrying not more than 10 years’ imprisonment, when both the Attorney General and accused agree. Prosecutions are conducted whenever sufficient evidence exists to warrant a conviction, a right to challenge the Police’s decision not to prosecute exists. Bail is addressed in CC Article 575 and the provision applies to all offences. No stricter conditions on bail are provided for corruption offences. The Restorative Justice Act, Articles 10 and 11, provides that parole can only be granted to prisoners serving a sentence of imprisonment of a term of one year or more. Disciplinary proceedings are normally dealt with by the Heads of Department in line with the 1999 Disciplinary Regulations. The Public Service Commission has the duty to ensure that disciplinary action against public officers is fair, prompt and effective. While suspension (with half pay pending investigation and proceedings) of public officials is provided for in the 1999 Disciplinary Regulations (Article 14), their removal or reassignment is possible only upon conviction. Sanctions including dismissal may be decided by the Prime Minister upon recommendation by the Public Service Commission. Disciplinary proceedings and criminal proceedings are separate and distinct. Presidential pardon can be given to a person who testifies in particular cases and assists other investigations. It can also be granted if the person returns all illicit proceeds and property derived from the crime and makes compensation to injured parties or the State. The nature of the crime is taken into consideration on a case by case basis.