Cantonal Judge for Violations, Den Haag District Court
The cantonal judge of the Den Haag District Court handles criminal cases involving violations, the lightest punishable offenses in the Netherlands. These are minor infractions carrying a maximum fine of €4,650. Unlike crimes, which are dealt with by the police judge, proceedings here are often faster and simpler—ideal for Den Haag residents facing a city-issued fine.
What are violations in Den Haag?
Violations are less serious than crimes and are defined in law as 'Anyone who commits a violation...'. Typical examples in Den Haag include traffic violations under the RVV 1994, such as running a red light on Laan van Wateringen, noise disturbances in neighborhoods like Transvaal, or public urination around the Plein. The distinction from crimes is set out in Article 1 of the Criminal Code (Sr): crimes can result in imprisonment.
In Den Haag, violations make up the majority of criminal cases, often resolved via a penal order such as a fine from the Municipality of Den Haag or CJIB. If you object, the case goes to the cantonal judge at the Den Haag District Court.
Legal basis for Den Haag District Court
The cantonal judge's exclusive jurisdiction over violations is laid down in Article 305 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (Sv). The maximum penalty is a third-category fine (Article 23 Sr): €4,650 for individuals, €93,000 for companies. Procedures follow Title IIIa Sv; an objection leads to a summons for a hearing in Den Haag, always before a single judge.
Procedure at Den Haag District Court
It often starts with a penal order from the prosecutor, such as for speeding on the Utrechtsebaan. File an objection in writing within 14 days (Art. 435 Sv), and a summons will follow.
At the hearing in the Den Haag District Court:
- The prosecutor presents the charges.
- You present your defense, call witnesses, or submit evidence.
- The judge usually rules on the spot.
Hearings are public; request an interpreter if needed. A lawyer is not required but helpful for complex Den Haag cases—free advice available at Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Practical examples from Den Haag
Example: €100 fine for parking in a disabled spot in the city center (Art. 25 RVV 1994). After objection, the cantonal judge hears both sides and may reduce or dismiss the fine if evidence is weak.
Or noise nuisance from a café on Grote Marktstraat (Noise Abatement Act): as a violation, it goes to the Den Haag District Court. Thousands of cases annually, many traffic-related.
Rights and obligations of the defendant
- Hearing and cross-examination: Defend yourself and demand proof (Art. 348 Sv).
- Access to case file: Request the police report from the prosecution or via Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
- Attendance requirement: Failure to appear risks detention of up to 8 days (Art. 449 Sv).
- Appeal: Within 14 days to the Court of Appeal (Art. 450 Sv).
Comparison: cantonal judge vs. police judge in Den Haag
Cantonal judge for violations, police judge for crimes. Overview:
| Aspect | Cantonal Judge, Den Haag District Court (violations) | Police Judge (crimes) |
|---|---|---|
| Type of offense | Minor violations, max. €4,650 fine | More serious, up to 1 year imprisonment |
| Procedure | After objection to penal order | Direct summons |
| Lawyer | Not required | Not required, but often recommended |
| Hearing duration | Short, single judge | Short, single judge |
More on the police judge? See our article police judge Den Haag.
Frequently asked questions for Den Haag
Do I need a lawyer at Den Haag District Court?
Not required, but consult Juridisch Loket Den Haag for free advice on high fines.
What if I don't pay the fine?
Prosecutor takes it to the cantonal judge; judgment may lead to enforcement.
Can I request a postponement?
Yes, for illness or urgent reasons; submit request to Den Haag District Court.
Difference from administrative fine?
CJIB fines (Municipality of Den Haag) are non-criminal unless objection escalates to criminal proceedings.
Tips for Den Haag residents
- Object on time: Within 14 days, by letter or prosecution form.
- Gather evidence: Photos of Den Haag situations, witnesses, or dashcam footage.
- Consider mediation: For neighbor disputes via Municipality of Den Haag or Juridisch Loket.
- Seek help: Contact Juridisch Loket Den Haag for guidance.