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You acted in self-defence but are a suspect

You say you defended yourself, but are interrogated as a suspect. Discuss the events with your lawyer. The word self-defense alone does not answer the legal questions.

Duration: 1:37

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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.

You say you defended yourself, but are interrogated as a suspect. Discuss the events with your lawyer. The word self-defense alone does not answer the legal questions.

Write down what you saw, when the attack started and how you reacted. Also describe space and the passage of time. Keep your own memories separate from what you heard or saw later.

Save original photos and messages and discuss possible camera footage or witnesses. Medical data may be relevant. Ensure that securing and retrieval takes place via an appropriate route.

Preparing for an interrogation means discussing rights and facts. It does not mean constructing a story that appears to meet the legal requirements of self-defence. Highlight uncertainties and do not influence witnesses.

Even if you say you acted in self-defence, advice about remaining silent or giving a statement still matters. Discuss what is already in the file and what further investigation may be needed.

Discuss with your lawyer which images, documents or witnesses can clarify the events. Determine what needs to be secured quickly and which process step is required.

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

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What should you do after an arrest?

Arrested in the Netherlands? Ask what you are suspected of. Suspicion does not mean that guilt has been established.

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Your rights during police questioning

Invited for police questioning in the Netherlands? Check your role. This explanation concerns questioning as a suspect, rather than as a witness.

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Received a summons: what happens next?

A Dutch criminal summons calls you to court. The Public Prosecution Service presents an accusation; the judge decides the case.

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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.

  1. Criminal Code: descriptions of offences, age and conditionsOpens in a new tabwetten.overheid.nlhttps://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0001854/

Sources accessed at .

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

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