What does a criminal defence lawyer cost?
A Dutch criminal defence lawyer's fees depend on the assignment, the time needed and the funding arrangement. Clarify the scope first.
Duration: 1:17
Further reading and sources
This video summarizes the main points. The full article provides more detail, exceptions and official sources. The information concerns adult suspects and does not replace advice about your case.
Read the full articleSpoken transcript
Download the transcriptCriminal Law in the Netherlands.
A Dutch criminal defence lawyer's fees depend on the assignment, the time needed and the funding arrangement. Clarify the scope first.
Ask which services the price includes. An initial consultation does not automatically cover the police interview, court hearing or complete defence.
An hourly rate, a fixed fee and an advance payment mean different things. Ask how VAT and additional costs are handled.
Discuss whether subsidised legal aid is possible and which costs remain. Special rules may apply after an arrest, so ask specifically.
Ask for a written estimate and updates during the case. Agree how extra work will be discussed and approved before costs increase.
At each new stage, ask whether further work requires a separate agreement. Keep the fee arrangements and confirmations with your case documents.
Read the full explanation on the Criminal Law in the Netherlands website.
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