Missing material in your criminal case file

Criminal Law in the Netherlands.

Your criminal case file appears incomplete. Note the document, date or recording you expected to find. Distinguish a missing item from a file that is present but cannot be opened.

Requesting an existing report is not the same as asking for a new investigation. Tell your lawyer whether you know the material exists and what makes you think it is relevant.

Describe what the material could clarify about the allegation, evidence or another decision. Avoid assuming that an absent document necessarily contains information favourable to you.

Discuss how access, a copy or further investigation should be requested. Criminal case file access follows its own rules. A general privacy request does not necessarily replace that procedure.

Keep a record of inaccessible links, incomplete downloads and missing attachments. Ask how usable access can be arranged. Do not alter the original material while trying to read it.

Save the request and any formal decision. Ask your lawyer about a refusal or no response. An informal request does not automatically postpone a hearing or suspend a deadline.

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