A judge in the Republic of Moldova was found guilty of issuing an unlawful judgment, but escaped criminal liability due to the expiry of the statute of limitations.

The order issued by the judge was quickly executed, but the courts later found that the magistrate had violated the law by issuing an unlawful judgment. The judge argued that the act did not constitute a crime, but the SJC rejected this defense, pointing out the serious irregularities committed. Although guilt was established, criminal liability was terminated due to the expiry of the statute of limitations. Other similar cases are pending and judicial practice varies.