My child has received a summons for the plural chamber: What now?
If you have received a summons for a hearing in the plural chamber, it means that you are charged with a more serious crime. For juvenile defendants, these hearings are conducted by three judges, who play a more important role in larger and more complex cases. This is in contrast to the children's judge, who handles less serious cases. Find out here how a plurality court hearing goes and what to expect.
What is a plural chamber hearing?
A multiple-chamber hearing is a court hearing at which three judges are present. These hearings are held for more serious offenses where the prosecutor demands a prison sentence of at least one year. A multiple chamber hearing may also be held on appeal.
How does a multiple-chamber hearing for minors proceed?
- Opening of Session: The president of the court opens the hearing and asks for the juvenile's name, date of birth, place and address. It is also stated that the juvenile has the right to remain silent.
- Indictment: The prosecutor discusses the charges, a summary of the facts with which the juvenile is charged.
- Interrogation: The presiding officer asks the juvenile what happened. The court, the prosecutor, and the attorney have the opportunity to ask questions. The juvenile himself or herself may also say something.
- Aggrieved Party: If there is an injured party, their claim is discussed. The injured party may use the right to speak to share the impact of events.
- Requisition: The prosecutor holds a requisition in which he or she explains what facts can be proven and what punishment is demanded.
- Plea: The juvenile's attorney enters a plea in which he or she responds to the indictment and defends on behalf of the juvenile.
- Reply and rejoinder: If applicable, the prosecutor may respond to the plea (reply) and the attorney may respond to it (rejoinder).
- Final word: The youth is given the opportunity to have the last word, which is not mandatory.
- Decision: The president closes the hearing and the court issues its ruling, usually within 14 days. If you disagree with the ruling, you can appeal within 14 days. The prosecutor can also appeal.
What penalties can the plural chamber impose?
The plurality may impose severe penalties and other decisions. These may include:
- community service: Unpaid work to be performed by the youth.
- Money penalty: A financial penalty.
- Compensation: Payment to the aggrieved party.
- Juvenile detention: Unconditional or conditional detention.
- Treatment measures: Such as a PIJ measure, depending on the severity of the case.
Need an attorney for your child?
Yes, it is very important to have an experienced lawyer at a multiple-chamber hearing. The lawyer can help you prepare your defense, gather evidence, and give advice on possible next steps, such as appeal.
Do you have questions or have you received a subpoena for a multiple-chamber hearing? If so, please contact a specialized attorney. You can reach our office via email at info@klpadvocaten.nl or by phone during office hours at 020-6731548. In urgent cases, such as an impending arrest, please call our emergency phone number 06-24428734.
