The police judge is a single judge who deals with minor criminal cases. The proceedings are often swift and less formal than before a multi-judge panel. What can you expect?
What is the police judge?
In Utrecht, the police judge at the Central Netherlands District Court handles minor criminal cases. A single judge makes the decision on the case.
Key characteristics
| Characteristic | Police Judge |
|---|---|
| Number of judges | 1 |
| Type of cases | Minor offences |
| Maximum penalty | 1 year imprisonment |
| Procedural style | Swift and informal |
| Judgment | Often immediate oral |
Which cases are heard?
The police judge in Utrecht handles cases that are not too complex and where no heavy penalties are sought.
Examples of cases
- Minor thefts, such as shoplifting
- Driving under the influence of alcohol
- Driving without a valid driving licence
- Minor forms of assault
- Threatening situations
- Damage to property
- Minor drug possession
- Abusive language or insult
Highest possible penalties
The police judge can impose penalties within certain limits.
Penalty maxima
| Type of penalty | Maximum |
|---|---|
| Imprisonment | 1 year |
| Community service | 240 hours |
| Fine | Within statutory categories |
How does a hearing proceed?
A hearing before the police judge in Utrecht is often short and proceeds in a relaxed manner.
Steps in the procedure
- Verification of the suspect's identity
- Reading out of the charge
- Questions to the suspect by the judge
- Hearing of witnesses or experts (if necessary)
- Plea by the public prosecutor
- Defence by a lawyer (if present)
- Last word of the suspect
- Usually immediate oral judgment
Is a lawyer necessary?
Engaging a lawyer is not mandatory before the police judge, but it can be advisable. For advice, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55.
When to engage a lawyer?
- If imprisonment is threatened
- If there is a risk of consequences for a Certificate of Conduct or driving licence
- If you dispute the charge
- In case of prior criminal cases (recidivism)
Referral to multi-judge panel
If the case is too complicated, the police judge can refer it to a multi-judge panel. This also happens in cases of:
- Need for a heavier penalty
- Necessity for additional investigation
Possibility of appeal
If you disagree with the judgment of the police judge, you can appeal to the court of appeal within 14 days.
Tips for the hearing
- Be on time and dress neatly
- Bring valid identification
- Consider legal assistance via a lawyer
- Organise your story in advance
- Remain respectful and calm
Location in Utrecht
The police judge cases are heard at Central Netherlands District Court, located at Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht. For legal advice, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55.