Duty solicitor scheme (piketregeling): our criminal defence lawyers participate in the duty solicitor scheme. Upon arrest, you can name us as your preferred lawyer — this is free of charge.
Legal expenses insurance (rechtsbijstandsverzekering): do you have legal expenses insurance? Then you can have your own lawyer paid by the insurer (free choice of lawyer).
We want to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent you from getting good legal assistance. That is why we assess for every case whether you are eligible for legal aid (toevoeging), and we explain transparently in advance what the costs are.
Understanding Legal Aid (Toevoeging) in Criminal Cases
Legal aid in the Netherlands, known as toevoeging, is a government-subsidized system designed to ensure that everyone, regardless of financial means, has access to qualified legal representation. When facing criminal charges, having a skilled lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. However, legal fees can be a concern for many.
The Legal Aid Board (Raad voor Rechtsbijstand) plays a central role in this system by subsidizing the costs of legal assistance for eligible individuals. To qualify, your income and assets are assessed to determine whether you can afford to pay for legal services yourself.
If you meet the criteria for legal aid, you will receive assistance from a lawyer who has been approved by the Board. You will only be required to pay a personal contribution (eigen bijdrage), which varies depending on your income level. For those with the lowest incomes, this amount is set at €188. This contribution helps cover part of the lawyer’s fees, while the rest is paid by the government.
Our team at Arslan Advocaten is experienced in navigating the legal aid system. We handle the application process on your behalf and ensure that you receive the maximum benefit available. This support relieves you of administrative burdens and allows you to focus on your case.
How Legal Expenses Insurance Can Help You
Many people in the Netherlands have legal expenses insurance (rechtsbijstandsverzekering) as part of their general insurance portfolio or as a standalone policy. This insurance covers legal costs for various types of disputes, including criminal defense in certain situations.
If you have legal expenses insurance, you may be able to have your own lawyer paid directly by your insurer. This means you can choose a lawyer you trust, such as one of our criminal defense specialists, without worrying about upfront costs. The insurer often covers the fees fully or partially, depending on the terms of your policy.
It is important to review your insurance policy carefully to understand the coverage limits, exclusions, and whether prior approval from the insurer is required. Our lawyers can help you assess your insurance situation and communicate with your insurer to facilitate the process.
Using legal expenses insurance can be a practical option if you want more control over your legal representation or if you do not qualify for legal aid. However, even with insurance, some policies may require you to pay a deductible or personal contribution.
What Happens If You Cannot Afford a Lawyer?
Facing criminal charges without the means to pay for legal representation can be daunting. Fortunately, the Dutch legal system offers protections to ensure that no one is left without counsel.
If you cannot afford a lawyer and do not have legal expenses insurance, you may still receive legal aid under the toevoeging scheme as explained above. The government subsidizes the cost and you pay only a small personal contribution.
In urgent cases, such as when you are arrested and detained, you have the right to immediate legal assistance. Under the duty solicitor scheme (piketregeling), a criminal defence lawyer will be appointed free of charge to represent you during police questioning and initial court appearances. You can also name Arslan Advocaten as your preferred lawyer at the time of arrest, ensuring prompt and consistent legal support.
Our firm is committed to making legal assistance accessible. We will work with you to explore all available options, including payment plans or pro bono services in exceptional circumstances. Do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your financial situation—we aim to tailor our services to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a criminal defence lawyer cost me money?
Usually not. Most suspects are eligible for subsidised legal aid (toevoeging). You then only pay a personal contribution (eigen bijdrage) depending on your income — for the lowest incomes, only €188.
Can I choose my own lawyer?
Yes, you always have the right to a free choice of lawyer. You can name your own lawyer to the police (preference notification) and you can change lawyers at any time.
Does Arslan Advocaten speak my language?
Our lawyers speak Dutch, Turkish, Polish and English. We can assist you in your own language, which is crucial in criminal law.
