Our law firm in the Netherlands provides experienced and strategic legal defense for individuals and businesses facing criminal charges. We cover a broad spectrum of criminal matters, including: financial crimes, violent offenses, and corporate misconduct. Below, our criminal attorneys in the Netherlands present an overview of the criminal law services we offer, along with the types of cases under the Dutch law.
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Criminal cases our lawyers cover
Based on the Dutch Penal Code (“Wetboek van Strafrecht”) adopted first on March 3rd 1881 and updated by amendments up to 1994, which regulates criminal offenses in the Netherlands, our Dutch criminal lawyers offer specialized assistance for different types of crime, including:
- Assault, homicide, manslaughter, domestic violence (violent crimes);
- Drug possession, drug trafficking, drug production (drug-related offenses);
- Unlawful possession or use of firearms (weapons violations);
- Theft, robbery, burglary (property crimes);
- Online fraud, identity theft, hacking operations (cybercrime);
- Rape, sexual abuse, grooming, cent assault (vice cases);
- Human trafficking, terrorism, criminal organizations (organized crime).
Our Dutch criminal defense lawyers will offer guidance through the stages of the legal process, whether you are facing charges or you encounter the beginning of an investigation.
Corporate criminal cases we cover
In the Netherlands, both individuals and legal entities are considered equals under the criminal law. Under the Article 51 of the Dutch Criminal Code, companies like corporations, foundations or partnerships can be considered responsible for criminal actions. Our specialized Dutch criminal attorneys offer legal representation in corporate crime cases, such as:
- Tax fraud and evasion matters – enforced by the Dutch Fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service (FIOD);
- Corruption;
- Bribery;
- Power abuse;
- Embezzlement;
- Corporate law violations.
During investigations and proceedings, our professional Dutch criminal lawyers ensure strong courtroom defense and skilled negotiations.
Criminal corporate liability in the Netherlands
As mentioned above, a company in the Netherlands can be treated like any other individual if it is connected with any kind of criminal behavior. In practice, Dutch companies are prosecuted for crimes like:
- Embezzlement, based on the Art.321 from the Criminal Code;
- Forgery, regulated by the Art.225;
- Money laundering, based on the Art.420bis presented in the Criminal code.
Additionally, companies in the Netherlands can be considered liable for tax-related offenses, regulated by the Economic Offenses Act. Our specialized criminal attorneys in the Netherlands have solid knowledge in this area and can provide effective legal defense for your company.
Why choose our Dutch criminal attorneys
Our criminal defense lawyers in the Netherlands are experienced in effectively handling a wide range of criminal trials and appeals. We offer:
- Strong representation in court and during investigations;
- Defense strategies based on the specific case involved;
- Case preparation, including witness coordination and document examination;
- Legal support during appeals and post-trial matters, if they appear.
Crime rates in the Netherlands
According to the official data of Statistics Netherlands, recent crime rates in this country indicate:
- In 2024, the police of Netherlands recorded 2,220 crimes per day, 812,000 in total;
- In 2023, there were 816,000 crimes recorded in total;
- 6 in 10 crimes were recorded as crimes against property (theft, fraud).
Furthermore, our specialized agents in the Netherlands cover a broad spectrum of services regarding legal and business matters in this country. For instance, our Dutch accountants can offer support in business related issues, such as: VAT registration in the Netherlands, company registration or annual register representation. For more information and personalized legal defense in the Netherlands, do not hesitate to contact our Dutch law firm.