At the level of theory, my exclusionary rule framework is grounded in the
separation of powers. Previous research about the separation of powers doctrine
has focused almost entirely on constitutional law and political theory. It has
completely ignored the special role that the doctrine plays in the criminal justice
system, a role consisting of the exercise of a reviewing function to ensure executive
compliance with the criminal law. Separation of powers is a core component of the
constitution’s system of checks and balances, a system in which each branch of the
government is endowed with a constitutional control over the others.
Without any judicial supervision or due process, the potential for arbitrary
enforcement is high. The alternatives to the exclusionary rule are mainly illusory
and of no practical avail. History also demonstrates that the very idea of protecting
the defendant’s right is completely empty unless it is linked to an efficient
mechanism. China grants the police too much power and has too little judicial
supervision over police investigations. It creates imbalance in the existing Chinese
criminal justice system. It is such an imbalance, and the lack of separation of
powers in the criminal justice system, that poses a significant and growing threat
for the protection of defendants’ rights.