Abstract (eng)
This thesis is concerned with denunciations before the Wiener Volksgericht and examines cases of denunciation regarding changes, characteristics and differences over the time of existence of the Volksgerichte between 1945 and 1955. It initially outlines the rehabilitation of state structures after the end of WWII and further investigates measures of denazification in Austria, focusing on the development of the Prohibition Act 1947 and Nationalsozialistengesetz 1947, the registration procedures, as well as atonements and amnesties. In the following chapter, special legislation, which is pivotal in understanding the legal practice at the Volksgericht criminal proceedings, is outlined. Subsequently, the emergence, installation and the competences of the Volksgerichte and the extents their jurisdiction are depicted. Thereupon, this thesis analyses the significance of denunciation and clarifies the various forms and characteristics of denunciations. The following investigation into the court records of the Volksgericht strives to illuminate the post-war justice’s handling of denunciation resulting in death – in accordance with § 7 Abs. 3 KVG – and therefore includes ten cases between 1945 and 1955 in the analysis.