Our law firm has represented numerous clients facing criminal charges, including in criminal proceedings (strafzaak). If you have been accused of a criminal offense, you could face serious legal consequences and should hire a legal representative immediately. If you are unable to afford an attorney, the government can cover your expenses. Find out more on our Rates & Fees page.

Court proceedings always follow a fixed pattern. The judge opens the trial and examines the suspect’s personal details. The judge also verifies other people’s attendance. Furthermore, the judge informs the suspect that they must pay particular attention to what happens during the hearing and that they are not required to answer questions. After that, the public prosecutor has the floor. They will explain to the judge what criminal offense the suspect is charged with.

The judge will interview the suspect on the facts of the criminal prosecution. The prosecutor and the attorney also have the opportunity to ask questions, after which the prosecutor provides their opinion on the case and their request for punishment. After the prosecution has spoken, it’s up to the attorneys to conduct the defense on behalf of their clients. It is therefore always important that to be assisted by an attorney during a trial. Ultimately, the suspect is given the last word.

The judge will often give a verdict immediately, but on occasions will wait a few weeks. In many criminal cases a verdict can be appealed. The case will then go to the Court of Appeal and be heard again. In some cases you can also appeal against the decision of the Court of Appeal. The “Hoge Raad”, a court of cassation, checks whether the law has been applied correctly.