The multi-judge chamber consists of three judges who jointly decide on serious and complex criminal cases. This chamber handles complicated cases and has the authority to impose stricter penalties than a single judge.
What is the multi-judge chamber?
The multi-judge chamber (MK) is a panel of three judges that deals with serious criminal cases. It is considered the 'main chamber' of the court and is active within the District Court of The Hague, which includes Westland.
Key characteristics
| Characteristic | Multi-Judge Chamber |
|---|---|
| Number of judges | 3 (chairman and 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 days |
| Judgment | Usually 14 days after the hearing |
Which cases does this chamber handle?
The multi-judge chamber focuses on the most serious criminal cases that require thorough treatment.
Examples of cases
- Murder and manslaughter
- Serious assault with severe consequences
- Sexual offences such as rape
- Armed robberies
- Large-scale drug trafficking or production
- Major fraud cases
- Terrorism-related cases
- Human trafficking
How does the procedure proceed?
The process in the multi-judge chamber is structured and extensive, with a formal approach.
Steps in the process
- Opening by the chairman
- Verification of identity and rights of the defendant
- Reading out of the indictment
- Examination during the hearing (witnesses, experts, evidence)
- Demand of the public prosecutor
- Defence by the lawyer
- Possible rebuttal and surrejoinder
- Last word of the defendant
- Closing of the investigation
- Judgment (often after 14 days)
Advantages of three judges
Working with three judges provides additional guarantees for a careful assessment.
Reasons for this
- Broader range of knowledge and insights
- Joint control over the decision
- Lower risk of one-sided views
- Better suited for complex evidence
- Increased credibility for severe sentences
Specific circumstances
The multi-judge chamber also handles special types of cases or situations.
Examples thereof
- Cases involving pre-trial detention
- Proceedings regarding TBS (involuntary commitment)
- Confiscation cases
- Dossiers with multiple defendants
- Cases with significant public interest
Is a lawyer necessary?
Although legal representation is not mandatory in the multi-judge chamber, it is virtually indispensable in practice.
Importance of a lawyer
- Possibility of high penalties
- Complex legal issues
- Lengthy and formal procedures
- Discussions regarding pre-trial detention
What is a pro forma hearing?
In complex cases, a pro forma hearing may take place to arrange organisational matters. The substantive treatment follows later.
Possibility of appeal
If you disagree with the judgment of the multi-judge chamber, you can appeal to the court of appeal. There, the case is reviewed again by three judges.
Information for Westland
For cases in Westland, the multi-judge chamber falls under the District Court of The Hague. For legal advice, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Westland.