Criminal Law in the Netherlands.

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

Check the case number, hearing date and location. Keep the summons, and mark any words in the accusation that you do not understand.

The summons does not contain the entire case file. Discuss access to the documents and note what information is still missing.

Have someone check whether you must appear personally, and when an authorised lawyer may defend you without your attendance.

Unable to attend? Make contact promptly. The judge decides whether to postpone; check whether your request has actually been granted.

Bring your summons and identity document. Allow time for entry checks, and report any need for language support or other arrangements beforehand.

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