When the police are at your door, a penalty order arrives in the mail, or you receive a summons, swift action is critical. The following pages provide initial guidance on the most common situations in criminal proceedings.
Important: Do not make any statement before speaking with a defence lawyer.
Arrest
What to do when arrested in Germany. Your rights and first steps explained.
House Search
House search by police - what you need to know about your rights.
Police Summons
Summons by the police or prosecution - how to respond correctly.
Penalty Order
Received a penalty order - your options and how to challenge it.
Pre-Trial Detention
Pre-trial detention - your rights and options for release.
Court-Appointed Lawyer
When do you have the right to a court-appointed defence lawyer?
Indictment Received
What to do after receiving an indictment - immediate steps.
Rights of the Accused
Your fundamental rights as a suspect in German criminal proceedings.
Written Hearing Notice
Received a written hearing notice? You are only required to provide your personal details, not to comment on the matter. Your right to remain silent applies here too.
Provisional Withdrawal of the Driving Licence
Has your driving licence been provisionally withdrawn? Quick action is essential. We examine the order and can lodge an appeal.
Seizure & Confiscation
Property secured or seized? We examine the lawfulness, the available remedies and their requirements, including for non-accused third parties.
Telecommunications Surveillance
Do you feel you are being monitored? Telecommunications surveillance is only permitted for serious catalogue offences. We review the measure and its admissibility.