Prisoners are deprived of their legal right to freedom, but the must not be deprived of other rights and dignity guaranteed by regulations. Due to the conditions they are in, their mental state may be at risk. In order not to lead to tragic consequences, it is important that everyone is equal before the law and that they are provided with adequate legal protection. Croatian law does not prescribe the death penalty because the Constitution of the Republic of Croatia states the right to life as one of the most important human rights. Until the guilt of a certain person is established, he is not considered guilty. Every accused or suspected person has the right to a fair trial, before a competent court and within a reasonable time. The government must treat each individual as a human being and provide protection to his honor, dignity, reputation and personal and family life. Prisoners have: the right to appropriate housing according to health standards, to right to protection of personality and the confidentiality of personal data, the right education, work, health care, adequate nutrition, connection with the outside world, professional legal assistance, the right to meet religious needs and special rights of foreigners and elections. The prison system should motivate the prisoner to respect social norms in the future and reduce the harmful consequences resulting from life in prison.