Claiming compensation in a criminal case

Criminal Law in the Netherlands.

As a victim, you want to request compensation in the criminal case. Discuss whether you can join the case as an injured party and what damage is directly related to the fact.

Make it clear for each damage item what amount you are requesting, what caused the damage and which documents support it. One total amount usually does not provide sufficient insight into the assessment.

Collect appropriate invoices, receipts and other documents. Indicate which part has already been reimbursed. Only allow personal or medical information to be used through an appropriate and necessary route.

Read how and when the claim must be submitted. Ask for help in a timely manner if the form or substantiation is unclear. Keep a copy and check receipt.

Inadmissibility is different from substantive rejection. Sometimes a civil court route may remain. Let the precise decision be explained before you conclude that reimbursement is impossible.

A granted claim, a compensation measure and actual payment are separate steps. After the ruling, ask who will handle the implementation and what information you can get about it.

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