The police judge, as a single judge, handles simple criminal cases in a faster and less formal setting than the multi-judge chamber. What does this mean for you in Westland?
What is the police judge?
In the court, the police judge is a single judge who deals with minor criminal cases. This judge makes independent decisions on the case.
Key characteristics
| Characteristic | Police Judge |
|---|---|
| Number of judges | 1 |
| Type of cases | Minor offences |
| Maximum penalty | 1 year imprisonment |
| Procedure | Less formal and swift |
| Judgment | Often immediate oral |
Which cases does the police judge handle?
The police judge in Westland, falling under the District Court of The Hague, handles cases that are not too complex and where no heavy penalties are sought.
Examples of cases
- Petty 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
- Petty drug possession
- Insulting remarks
Level of penalties
The police judge may impose penalties within certain limits, appropriate to the nature of the cases.
Maximum penalties
| Type of penalty | Maximum |
|---|---|
| Imprisonment | 1 year |
| Community service | 240 hours |
| Fine | According to statutory categories |
How does a hearing proceed?
A hearing before the police judge is often short and proceeds in an informal manner.
Steps in the procedure
- Verification of the suspect's identity
- Presentation of the charge
- Questions to the suspect by the judge
- Possibly hearing witnesses or experts
- Demand of the public prosecutor
- Defence by the lawyer (if present)
- Last word of the suspect
- Usually immediate oral judgment
Is a lawyer necessary?
Although a lawyer is not mandatory before the police judge, engaging one in Westland via the Juridisch Loket Westland may be advisable.
When to engage a lawyer?
- If there is a chance of imprisonment
- In case of risk to VOG or driving licence
- If you dispute the charge
- In case of a history of prior convictions
Referral to multi-judge chamber
If a case turns out to be too complicated, the police judge may refer it to a multi-judge chamber, for example in cases of:
- Complex circumstances
- Need for a heavier penalty
- Necessity for additional investigation
Possibility of appeal
If you disagree with the judgment of the police judge, you can lodge an appeal with the court of appeal within 14 days.
Advice for the hearing
- Be punctual and dress neatly
- Bring valid identification
- Consider legal assistance via Juridisch Loket Westland
- Prepare your statement well
- Remain respectful and calm