The multiple judges chamber consists of three judges who jointly decide on serious criminal cases in the Utrecht region. This chamber handles complex cases and can impose stricter penalties than a single judge.
What is the multiple judges chamber?
The multiple judges chamber (MK) is a panel of three judges that makes decisions on serious and complex criminal cases. It is considered the 'main chamber' of the court, including the Central Netherlands District Court at Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1 in Utrecht.
Key features
| Feature | Multiple Judges Chamber |
|---|---|
| Number of judges | 3 (1 presiding judge, 2 associate judges) |
| Type of cases | Serious and complex crimes |
| Maximum penalty | Up to the statutory maximum (including life imprisonment) |
| Proceedings | Formal, often over multiple hearing days |
| Judgment | Usually 14 days after the hearing |
Which cases are handled?
The most serious criminal cases occurring in the Utrecht region are handled in the multiple judges chamber.
Examples of cases
- Murder and manslaughter
- Serious assault with severe injuries
- Sexual offenses such as rape
- Armed robberies
- Large-scale drug trafficking or production
- Major fraud and deception cases
- Terrorism-related cases
- Human trafficking
How does the procedure proceed?
The process in the multiple judges chamber is structured and more extensive than in other chambers.
Steps in the procedure
- Opening by the presiding judge
- Verification of identity and explanation of rights
- Presentation of the indictment
- Examination during the hearing (witnesses, experts, documents)
- Plea by the public prosecutor
- Defense by the lawyer
- Possible reply and surrejoinder
- Last word of the defendant
- Closing of the investigation
- Judgment (usually after 14 days)
Advantages of a panel of judges
Having three judges in the multiple judges chamber provides additional safeguards for a fair trial.
Reasons for this
- Diverse knowledge and perspectives
- Joint assessment of decisions
- Lower chance of one-sided views
- Suitable for complex evidentiary issues
- Increased legitimacy for severe sentences
Special circumstances
The multiple judges chamber in Utrecht also handles special types of cases and procedures.
Examples thereof
- Cases with pre-trial detention
- Procedures regarding TBS (involuntary commitment)
- Confiscation cases
- Dossiers with multiple defendants
- Cases with significant public attention
Is a lawyer necessary?
Although legal assistance is not legally required in the multiple judges chamber, it is essential in practice.
Importance of a lawyer
- Possibility of high penalties
- Complex legal matters
- Lengthy and formal procedures
- Negotiations regarding pre-trial detention
Pro forma hearings in Utrecht
In complex cases, a pro forma hearing may take place to discuss organizational matters before the substantive hearing begins.
Possibility of appeal
Appeals against judgments of the multiple judges chamber can be lodged with the court of appeal, where the case is reviewed again by three judges.
Contact and support in Utrecht
For legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55. For cases at the court, you can contact the Central Netherlands District Court at Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1.