Criminal Law

Criminal Case Defense

As criminal defense attorneys, we undertake the duties of protecting the legal rights of suspects or defendants, monitoring the evidence collection process, being present during statements and interrogations, objecting to arrest and detention decisions, and providing effective defense throughout the prosecution process.

Investigation Phase

Investigation is a critical process that begins with learning of the suspicion of crime and ends with the acceptance of the indictment. The statements given, evidence collected, and procedures performed at this stage directly affect the course of the case. Detention period is 24 hours for individual crimes and can be extended up to 4 days for collective crimes. Legal assistance is a constitutional right and should be exercised from the beginning of the investigation.

Prosecution and Trial

In the prosecution phase that begins with the acceptance of the indictment, participation in hearings, cross-examination of witnesses and complainants, evaluation of evidence, and presentation of legal defense are critically important. At this stage, all evidence in favor of the defendant must be effectively presented to the court.

Major Crime Types and Penalties

Detention and Appeal

Detention occurs by judge's decision in case of strong suspicion of crime and detention grounds such as flight risk or evidence tampering. There is a right to object to the detention order, and under the general objection rule in CCP art. 268 the period is as a rule two weeks from becoming aware of the decision. Release may be requested if detention exceeds a reasonable time.

Legal Remedies

Regional appeal and Court of Cassation review may be pursued against first-instance criminal judgments. Under CCP art. 273, the regional-appeal period is two weeks from service of the reasoned judgment; under art. 291, the cassation period is likewise, as a rule, two weeks from service of the reasoned judgment. Extraordinary remedies include the Chief Public Prosecutor's objection and retrial.

Enforcement Law

In the enforcement process that begins with the finalization of the conviction decision, we provide legal support on issues such as conditional release, probation, sentence deferral, and serving sentences in installments. We also stand by our clients in good behavior reduction and transition to open prison processes.