Supersnelrecht Procedure in Den Haag
The supersnelrecht procedure in Den Haag offers swift handling of simple criminal cases carrying a maximum penalty of one year imprisonment. From arrest to verdict within four working days: ideal for caught-in-the-act offenses like shoplifting in the city center or minor altercations. This approach relieves the pressure on Rechtbank Den Haag and delivers immediate clarity for victims and suspects in the region.
What is the supersnelrecht procedure in Den Haag?
In supersnelrecht in Den Haag, the police judge at Rechtbank Den Haag handles the case shortly after arrest. Unlike standard proceedings that can take weeks or months, this ensures efficient justice. It was introduced through pilots starting in 2016 and rolled out nationwide since 2021, frequently applied to caught-in-the-act cases in The Hague such as bicycle theft or public nuisance.
It begins with an on-the-spot arrest by Haaglanden Police. After interrogation, the Public Prosecution Service (OM) decides on issuing a summons. The hearing is typically on Monday morning at Rechtbank Den Haag, no later than four working days after arrest.
Legal basis for supersnelrecht
Supersnelrecht is grounded in the Code of Criminal Procedure (Sv), without a dedicated statute:
- Article 257 Sv: Direct hearing after arrest.
- Article 350(3) Sv: Expedited handling of simple cases.
- Article 435a Sv: Rules for summons in accelerated proceedings.
OM Guideline 2019R009 and pilots (Bulletin of Acts and Decrees 2016, 389) guide implementation. In complex The Hague cases, the judge may deviate.
Step-by-step supersnelrecht process in Den Haag
The process is structured:
- On-the-spot arrest: Police intervene in offenses like theft in Scheveningen or public drunkenness in the city center.
- Police interrogation: Within 6 hours, with rights read out (right to silence, lawyer).
- OM decision: Immediate summons for supersnelrecht in straightforward cases.
- Hearing at Rechtbank Den Haag: Within 4 working days; present: judge, OM, clerk, lawyer, and possibly victim.
- Verdict: Delivered immediately, usually a fine or community service.
Total timeframe often 72 hours to 4 days.
Eligibility criteria for supersnelrecht in Den Haag
Only for suitable cases:
- Max. 1 year statutory penalty.
- Caught in the act.
- Limited denial by suspect.
- Straightforward evidence, no multiple suspects.
- No special cases (juveniles, risk of TBS order).
Otherwise, standard proceedings apply.
Suspect's rights in The Hague supersnelrecht
You retain all rights:
- Lawyer: Free via Juridisch Loket Den Haag; bring to hearing.
- Right to silence: Stay silent if preferred.
- Access to file: Review police report.
- Hearing adjournment: Consult with lawyer.
Appear on time with ID; failure may result in arrest.
The Hague practice examples of supersnelrecht
Example 1: Theft in Grote Marktstraat. Mr. Jansen steals wine from supermarket (max. 6 months). Caught in the act, interrogated, Monday hearing at Rechtbank Den Haag. OM demands €200 fine; judge imposes €150. Resolved in 3 days.
Example 2: Assault at Plein café. Bar fight, punch admitted. Hearing: 40 hours community service imposed immediately. Victim informed right away.
As is customary in Den Haag: swift relief for all involved.
Supersnelrecht vs. standard proceedings comparison
| Aspect | Supersnelrecht Den Haag | Standard proceedings |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4 working days | 3-12 months |
| Hearing | Immediate, verdict on the spot | Multiple dates |
| Lawyer | Provided at hearing | Legal aid/private |
| Suitable for | Simple Den Haag offenses | Complex cases |
| Penalty | Fine/community service | Full range |
FAQ: Supersnelrecht in Den Haag
Refuse a lawyer in Den Haag?
Don't: free via Juridisch Loket Den Haag. Without one, risk harsher sentence.
Innocent in supersnelrecht?
Deny it; judge often refers to standard track. Caught-in-the-act evidence is strong.
Appeal possible?
Yes, within 14 days; small fines (up to €500) excluded.
Always for caught-in-the-act in Den Haag?
No, OM and Rechtbank Den Haag decide based on simplicity.
Tips for supersnelrecht in Den Haag
- Call Juridisch Loket Den Haag (0800-8020) for emergency lawyer.
- Review file in advance.
- Check criminal record for recidivism.
- Contact Gemeente Den Haag for community service info.