Legal Analysis of Judges' Considerations in Handing Down Decisions in Crime Cases of Class I Narcotics Abuse, Case Study at Manado District Court

Abstract

Indonesia faces a serious threat from the distribution and abuse of narcotics, which impact social stability and national security. Its strategic geographic location makes Indonesia vulnerable as a transit route and primary market for narcotics, particularly highly addictive Class I narcotics. Although regulated by Law Number 35 of 2009 concerning Narcotics, law enforcement still faces obstacles, one of which is disparity in judicial decisions, leading to inconsistent legal implementation. This study analyzes the judges' considerations in handing down verdicts in cases of Class I narcotics abuse at the Manado District Court, examining legal, philosophical, and sociological aspects. The results are expected to contribute to efforts to achieve more proportional, consistent, and equitable sentencing within the framework of national criminal law reform.