The canton judge handles the least serious criminal offences, also known as violations. The procedure is often quick and a lawyer is usually not necessary. What can you expect if you appear before the canton judge in the Zoetermeer region?
What Does the Canton Judge Do?
The canton judge is a single judge who deals with violations, the lightest form of criminal offences, as opposed to crimes.
Key Characteristics
| Characteristic | Canton Judge |
|---|---|
| Number of judges | 1 |
| Type of cases | Violations |
| Maximum penalty | 1 year detention (not imprisonment) |
| Procedure | Simple and swift |
| Lawyer required? | Not mandatory, often unnecessary |
Which Cases Are Handled?
The canton judge handles violations that fall under the Criminal Code and specific legislation.
Examples of Cases
- Traffic violations (such as speeding or running a red light)
- Public drunkenness
- Minor disturbances of public order
- Minor noise nuisance
- Violations of the General Local Ordinance (APV)
- Minor environmental offences
- Non-compliance with shop closing times
Difference with the Police Judge
| Characteristic | Canton Judge | Police Judge |
|---|---|---|
| Type of offence | Violations | Crimes |
| Seriousness of the case | Less serious | Moderately serious |
| Liberty deprivation | Detention (max. 1 year) | Imprisonment (max. 1 year) |
| Criminal record | Usually not | Usually yes |
How Does the Procedure Proceed?
The procedure before the canton judge is generally very streamlined and simple.
Steps in the Procedure
- Receipt of a summons letter (not a formal indictment)
- Verification of your identity
- Brief discussion of the facts
- Opportunity for the defendant to defend
- Immediate pronouncement of the judgment at the hearing
What if You Do Not Appear?
For violations, it is sometimes possible not to appear in person.
Options
- Default: You do not appear and the judge decides without your presence
- Written response: You submit your position in writing
- Representation: Someone else represents you at the hearing
Which Penalties Can the Canton Judge Impose?
The penalties that the canton judge can impose are limited in nature.
Possible Sanctions
- Fine (the most common penalty)
- Detention (maximum 1 year, rarely applied)
- Alternative community service
- Driving disqualification (for traffic violations)
Possibility of Appeal
Filing an appeal against a judgment of the canton judge is possible in certain cases.
Conditions for Appeal
- Only for fines higher than €50 or other penalties
- Deadline for filing: within 14 days
- Handled by the court of appeal
Practical Advice
- Read the summons carefully: what exactly are you accused of?
- Determine whether it is useful to appear
- For minor violations, a lawyer is often not necessary
- For higher penalties or fines: consider mounting a defence
Local Information for Zoetermeer
For cases in Zoetermeer, you fall under the District Court of The Hague. For free legal advice, you can contact the Legal Aid Office Zoetermeer.