Fast-Track Procedure at Rotterdam District Court Explained

Fast-Track Procedure in Rotterdam

The fast-track procedure offers Rotterdam residents a swift resolution for simple criminal cases at the Rotterdam District Court. This applies to offences carrying a maximum one-year prison sentence, such as crimes caught in the act in the city. From arrest to judgment within four working days: efficient for cases like shoplifting in shopping centres or minor fights in the harbour district, while preserving your rights.

What is the fast-track procedure in Rotterdam?

In Rotterdam's fast-track procedure, the police court handles your case immediately after arrest, unlike the lengthy regular process. This eases the burden on the Rotterdam District Court and provides quick clarity for victims and suspects. Introduced via pilots in 2016 and nationwide since 2021, it targets common Rotterdam offences like bicycle theft or public order violations.

It starts with an arrest caught in the act by the Rotterdam-Rijnmond Police. After interrogation, the Public Prosecutor's Office (PPO) decides on summons. Hearings often take place on Monday mornings at the Rotterdam District Court, within four working days.

Legal basis for fast-track procedure

The fast-track procedure is based on the Code of Criminal Procedure (Sv), without separate legislation. Key articles:

• Article 257 Sv: Immediate hearing after arrest.
• Article 350(3) Sv: Swift resolution of simple cases.
• Article 435a Sv: Rules for summons in accelerated proceedings.

The PPO Guideline (2019R009) and pilots (Stb. 2016, 389) guide practice. If complex, the Rotterdam District Court rejects it.

Step-by-step fast-track procedure at Rotterdam District Court

The process is structured. Overview:

1. Arrest caught in the act: Rotterdam Police intervene in offences like pickpocketing on the Lijnbaan.
2. Police interrogation: Within 6 hours, with rights read out (right to silence, lawyer).
3. PPO decision: Summons for fast-track in simple Rotterdam case.
4. Hearing at Rotterdam District Court: Within 4 working days with judge, prosecutor, clerk, lawyer and possibly victim.
5. Immediate judgment: Often a fine or community service.

Total: usually 72 hours to 4 days.

Conditions for fast-track procedure in Rotterdam

Only if:

• Max. 1 year statutory maximum penalty.
• Immediate arrest caught in the act.
• Limited denial by suspect.
• Simple evidence, no group offences.
• No special factors (juveniles, TBS risk).

Otherwise: proceeds to standard process.

Your rights during fast-track procedure

You retain all rights:

• Lawyer: Free via legal aid; arrange via Legal Aid Office Rotterdam.
• Right to silence: Stay silent if you wish.
• Access to file: Review the police report.
• Hearing adjournment: Consult with counsel.

Appear on time with ID; otherwise arrest warrant.

Rotterdam practice examples

Example 1: Shoplifting in shopping centre. Mr. De Vries takes sweets in Alexandrium (max. 6 months). Caught in the act, interrogated, hearing at Rotterdam District Court: €180 fine imposed in 3 days.

Example 2: Minor assault. Fight in Feijenoord café, admission. Immediate 30 hours community service; victim informed on site.

This illustrates Rotterdam's speed: fewer backlogs, more peace of mind.

Fast-Track vs. Regular Procedure at Rotterdam District Court

FAQ Fast-Track Rotterdam

Tips for Rotterdam Residents

• Call Legal Aid Office Rotterdam (0800-8020) for urgent lawyer.
• Review file in advance.
• Check criminal record at Rotterdam Municipality.
• Consider settlement via PPO.