Supersnelrecht Procedure Explained for Delft

Supersnelrecht Procedure in Delft

The supersnelrecht procedure in Delft offers a swift resolution for simple criminal cases, such as shoplifting in the city center or a brawl on the Market Square. For offenses carrying a maximum penalty of one year imprisonment, the process from arrest to verdict takes place within four working days at the The Hague District Court. This saves time for suspects from Delft and provides victims with immediate clarity.

What Does Supersnelrecht Mean for Residents of Delft?

In the Delft region, supersnelrecht means the judge handles the case immediately after arrest, unlike the lengthy regular process. Since its nationwide rollout in 2021, it has helped relieve the The Hague District Court. It focuses on crimes caught in the act, such as theft at local supermarkets or public order offenses in the city center.

After an on-the-spot arrest by police in Delft, an interrogation follows directly. The Public Prosecution Service (PPS) decides whether supersnelrecht summons is appropriate, with hearings often on Monday mornings within four working days.

Legal Basis for Supersnelrecht

This procedure is based on the Code of Criminal Procedure (CCP), with key articles such as:

• Article 257 CCP: Immediate hearing after arrest.
• Article 350(3) CCP: Swift resolution for simple cases.
• Article 435a CCP: Rules for summons in supersnelrecht.

The PPS Guideline (2019R009) and 2016 pilots form the foundation. If the case is complex, the judge at the The Hague District Court rejects it.

Step-by-Step Supersnelrecht Process in Delft

The process is tightly structured:

1. On-the-Spot Arrest: For example, by police in Delft for theft or public drunkenness at Koepoort.
2. Police Interrogation: Within six hours, including reading of rights such as the right to silence and to a lawyer.
3. PPS Decision: Immediate summons if the case is straightforward.
4. Hearing at The Hague District Court: Within four working days; present: single judge, prosecutor, clerk, lawyer, and possibly victim.
5. Immediate Verdict: Often a fine or community service order.

Total: usually 72 hours to four days.

Eligibility Criteria for Supersnelrecht

For cases in Delft, strict requirements apply:

• Maximum penalty of one year.
• Caught in the act.
• Suspect largely admits guilt.
• Straightforward evidence, no group offenses.
• No special cases such as juveniles or risk of inpatient treatment order.

If not, the case goes to the regular process via the Municipality of Delft or PPS.

Your Rights as a Suspect in Delft

You retain all your rights:

• Lawyer: Free via Juridisch Loket Delft (call 0800-8020 for emergencies).
• Right to Silence: You may remain silent.
• Access to Case File: Review the police report.
• Hearing Adjournment: Consult with your lawyer.

Appear with ID; failure to do so may result in an arrest warrant.

Real-Life Examples from Delft

Example 1: Theft in Delft. Mrs. de Vries takes candy from Jumbo (max. six months penalty). Caught in the act, interrogated, hearing at The Hague District Court: €180 fine imposed in three days.

Example 2: Assault on a Delft Terrace. Fight on the Market Square, admission of guilt: immediate 30 hours community service. Victim from Delft informed on the spot.

This illustrates the speed for local incidents.

Supersnelrecht vs. Regular Process

Frequently Asked Questions about Supersnelrecht in Delft

Tips for Residents of Delft

• Call Juridisch Loket Delft for a lawyer (0800-8020).
• Review the case file in advance.
• Check criminal record for recidivism via police.
• Contact Municipality of Delft for local violations.