Questioning when illness or stress affects you
Illness, severe stress or a learning difficulty can affect an interview. Tell your lawyer and the police what you cannot understand or manage. A diagnosis and a practical support need are different things.
Duration: 1:34
Further reading and sources
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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Download the transcriptCriminal Law in the Netherlands.
Illness, severe stress or a learning difficulty can affect an interview. Tell your lawyer and the police what you cannot understand or manage. A diagnosis and a practical support need are different things.
Explain whether you lose track of questions, confuse times or need breaks. Mention medication and relevant health concerns accurately. Do not assume others can see what you need.
Ask for private consultation before the interview. Your lawyer can discuss appropriate safeguards and draw attention to difficulty understanding questions or pressure during questioning.
Say when you do not understand a question. Ask for it to be explained and discuss a break with your lawyer. Agreeing with a question just to end the interview can cause confusion.
A supporter does not replace a lawyer and should not invent a statement for you. Ask who may attend, what their role is and how your own account will remain clear.
Keep a short record of the needs reported and the arrangements made. Discuss the interview record with your lawyer. Seek urgent medical attention if your health deteriorates.
Read the full explanation on the Criminal Law in the Netherlands website.
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