Preparing for the single-judge criminal court

Criminal Law in the Netherlands.

You must appear before the single-judge criminal court. Read the summons with your lawyer and check the date, place and charge. A short hearing can have important consequences and requires preparation.

Discuss which facts are alleged and which documents are available. Write down what you know and what you are unsure about. Don't prepare a story that only seems to fit the case.

Collect relevant information about work, housing, health or treatment. Discuss what the judge needs to understand your situation. Keep this information separate from the review of the evidence.

Is there a claim for damages? Discuss each item and its supporting documents. Answering the charge does not automatically address the amount of damage or its connection to the alleged offence.

The public prosecutor may request a sentence. That is the prosecution position, not the judge's ruling. Listen to the actual decision and ask for an explanation if anything is unclear.

After the ruling, discuss exactly what has been decided and what appeal period applies to you. Waiting for further explanation does not automatically extend a period. Record who carries out a necessary step.

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