Judicial Documentation System in Den Haag
The Judicial Documentation System (JDS) is the national database where the Dutch justice system records criminal offenses and judicial antecedents of individuals, including residents of Den Haag. This system plays a key role in checks for a Certificate of Conduct (VOG), for example, for jobs in Den Haag's hospitality sector or public service. The JDS maintains records on convictions, discontinuances, and settlements, which are essential for employers, the Municipality of Den Haag, and residents themselves.
What Does the Judicial Documentation System Mean for Den Haag?
Managed by the National Judicial Documentation System (LJDS) of the Ministry of Justice and Security, the JDS collects judicial information on Dutch nationals and foreigners who come into contact with the justice system in the Netherlands, such as in Den Haag. This confidential database is not public but is accessed by police, the Public Prosecution Service (OM), the Rechtbank Den Haag, and other authorities.
In addition to full criminal cases, the JDS also records settlements (such as fines without trial) and discontinuances (termination of prosecution). This provides Den Haag authorities with a complete overview of an individual's history, which is important for assessing recidivism or suitability for local positions.
Legal Basis of the JDS
The JDS is governed by the Police Data Act (Wpg), which replaced the old Judicial and Police Data Act as of January 1, 2015. Key provisions:
- Article 4 Wpg: Judicial data concern suspects, convicts, or victims.
- Articles 16-22 Wpg: Cover storage, retention, and access to documentation.
- Article 35 GDPR: Ensures lawful and proportionate data processing.
Retention periods are set out in the Police Data Retention Periods Decree, ranging from 2 to 40 years depending on the severity of the offense.
How Does the JDS Operate in Relation to Den Haag?
Data enters the JDS upon a declaration of suspicion. Police, the OM, and the Rechtbank Den Haag forward information to the LJDS, linked to a unique judicial documentation number (JDN) based on name, date of birth, and address.
Den Haag authorities use it for:
- VOG screening for job applications, such as with the Municipality of Den Haag.
- Checks for repeated offenses.
- Residence or work permits.
The JDS is linked to police systems such as the HIS.
What Data Is Stored in the JDS?
Only judicial reports are recorded. Overview:
| Category | Examples (Den Haag context) | Retention Period |
|---|---|---|
| Convictions | Prison sentence, community service for nuisance in Schilderswijk, fine | 5-40 years after ECLI |
| Settlements | Fine for parking violation in central Den Haag | 2-5 years |
| Discontinuances | Termination due to insufficient evidence for bicycle theft | 5 years (longer for serious offenses) |
| Other | Conditional discontinuance, youth sanctions | Variable, often shorter |
Children under 12 are not included; young people have shorter periods.
Rights and Obligations Regarding the JDS
Your rights as a resident of Den Haag:
- Access: Request your 'personal statement' from Justis (€20-€30). Assistance via Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
- Correction: Rectify errors with the LJDS or court (art. 41 Wpg).
- Deletion: Automatic after retention period.
Obligations: Be honest in VOG applications; lying is punishable.
Practical Examples from Den Haag
Example 1: Jan from the Haagse Marktbuurt pays a €400 settlement in 2015 for a traffic violation. This remains in the JDS for 5 years. In 2022, it blocks his VOG for a tram conductor job unless rehabilitation is proven.
Example 2: Sara's discontinuance for a minor theft in Zeeheldenkwartier stays on record for 5 years. During a rental check via the Municipality of Den Haag, the landlord sees it; she requests correction via Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Example 3: A Den Haag company screens via VOG for office jobs; JDS shows old fraud (20-year retention), leading to dismissal.
Link to Criminal Record and VOG
The JDS forms the basis for your criminal record. A VOG is issued if the JDS is clear for the job. More info: Criminal Record and VOG.
Frequently Asked Questions for Den Haag
Can I access my JDS data?
Yes, request a 'personal statement' from Justis (€25, within 4 weeks). Start at justis.nl or via Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
How long are data retained?
From 2-5 years for fines to 40 years for serious sentences. Destroyed after period; see Police Data Retention Periods Decree.
Incorrect information in JDS?
Request correction from LJDS. No response? Approach the Rechtbank Den Haag or Juridisch Loket Den Haag for assistance.