Accountable for a Lifetime: Reforms in Prosecutorial Accountability in China

Abstract The judicial accountability reform in China introduced the concept of lifelong accountability, which requires prosecutors to be responsible for cases they handle by tying their reputation and career prospects quality cases, regardless whether still hold those positions. To explain this article analyzes key issues surrounding prosecutorial Chinese context, critically examining system before transformations brought about new regime. It argues that although is expected a deterrent misconduct, feasibility mechanism subject doubt. tries form collective responsibility, enabling frontline exercise greater autonomy. However, it has not led paradigm shift from predominantly bureaucratic model professionalism, demonstrates profound distrust prosecutor’s judgment at fundamental level.