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Preparing for your final words in court

At the end of the criminal hearing, the defendant has the final word. It is a right, not an obligation to confess, apologise or repeat the entire defence.

Duration: 1:35

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This video summarises the main points. The full article provides more detail, exceptions and official sources. This information does not replace advice about your case.

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Criminal Law in the Netherlands.

At the end of the criminal hearing, the defendant has the final word. It is a right, not an obligation to confess, apologise or repeat the entire defence.

Think about what you genuinely want the court to understand. Your personal situation, a concern or a response to the hearing may matter. Avoid a speech that does not reflect your own position.

Ask your lawyer how your personal explanation relates to the defence. Discuss sensitive information and any new factual point before deciding whether to raise it in your final words.

Distinguish your own knowledge from assumptions or things heard from others. Do not invent details because you feel pressure to say more. You can keep your final words brief.

A short list of points can help you stay focused. Ask your lawyer about the practical arrangements. A written outline should support your own message rather than become a rehearsed admission.

Pay attention to what has actually been discussed in court. If something unexpected arises, ask to consult your lawyer. Your final words should fit the hearing and what you truly intend to say.

Read the full explanation on the Criminal Law in the Netherlands website.

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Understand the supporting sources

Sources and supporting information

Here you can find the sources for this page. Open the original publication for the full explanation, conditions and exceptions.

  2. Rechtspraak: adult criminal proceedingsOpens in a new tabrechtspraak.nlhttps://www.rechtspraak.nl/organisatie-en-contact/rechtsgebieden/strafrecht/procedures/strafrechtelijke-procedure
  3. Rechtspraak: position of the suspect and the right to be the last to say something at the end of the criminal hearingOpens in a new tabrechtspraak.nlhttps://www.rechtspraak.nl/naar-de-rechter/rol-in-rechtszaak/u-wordt-verdacht-van-een-strafbaar-feit/verdachte-in-een-strafzaak

Sources accessed at .

A source reference does not constitute a legal review of this page.

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