Every criminal case deserves the same sharpness — including the case that fits no category
Not every criminal case fits into a box. Criminal damage, insult, unlawful entry, stalking, arson, perjury: we tackle these cases too with the same care and sharpness.
The broad remainder of criminal law
The Dutch Criminal Code contains many offences that make the news less often but have major consequences: criminal damage (art. 350), insult and defamation, unlawful entry, stalking, arson and perjury.
Each offence has its own elements that the OM must prove. We dissect the charge and look for the weak link.
Criminal damage and arson
Criminal damage (art. 350) requires intent to cause damage; an accident or necessity falls outside it. Arson is far heavier, particularly where there is danger to persons — there it turns on intent and the danger created.
We test whether the intent and the danger are genuinely provable and contest an overly severe classification.
Insult, defamation and libel
Insult, defamation and libel each have their own requirements. Context, intent and the nature of the utterance determine the criminal liability, and freedom of expression plays a role.
We place the utterance back in its context and assess whether there is an offence.
Stalking and unlawful entry
Stalking (art. 285b) is a systematic infringement of someone’s private life; frequency, nature and consequences are decisive. Unlawful entry concerns unlawfully entering or failing to leave.
These cases often play out in the relational or neighbourly sphere, with conflicting accounts. We bring the full circumstances into focus.
Perjury and false complaint
A false statement under oath (perjury) or a false complaint is punishable, but requires intent and, for perjury, a statement under oath on a relevant matter.
We test whether those strict requirements are met before an offence is assumed.
Unsure whether your case falls under this?
Not sure which practice area your case falls under? That is fine. Call or send us a brief account of your situation, and we will tell you straight away where you stand and what the first step is.
Also for a summons, court summons or arrest for a less common offence, we are ready for you the same day.
When to call us
- You have a summons for an offence you do not immediately recognise
- You are a suspect in criminal damage, insult, stalking or arson
- The case plays out in the relational or neighbourly sphere
- You are suspected of perjury or a false complaint
- You have been invited for interview and do not know what it is about
- You are unsure which practice area your case falls under
Frequently asked questions
My case is not in the list. Can you help?
Almost certainly. We are generalists in criminal law and also handle less common offences. Call us briefly and we will tell you straight away how we can assist you.
When is insult punishable?
Insult, defamation and libel each have their own requirements. Context, intent and the nature of the utterance determine the criminal liability. We assess your specific case.
What is stalking?
Stalking (art. 285b) is systematically infringing someone’s private life. Whether that is the case depends on frequency, nature and consequences. We run that defence meticulously.
I do not know what my interview is about. What do I do?
Do not make any statement before you know what you are suspected of and have spoken to us. We request the grounds and prepare you.
When is criminal damage punishable?
Criminal damage requires intent to cause the damage. An accident or necessity falls outside it. We test whether that intent is genuinely provable.
What do I risk with arson?
Arson carries a high sentence, particularly where there is danger to persons. The intent and the danger created are decisive; that is where we direct the defence.
Is a false complaint punishable?
Yes, but it requires intent. We test whether those strict requirements are met before an offence is assumed.
How quickly can you respond?
We respond the same day. Feel free to put your case to us free of charge, and we will tell you straight away how we can assist you.