Don’t respond without a lawyer
Police summons
When the police initiate an investigation, they usually send a police summons promptly. Officers intend to interview the accused on the date specified in the letter. However, there is no obligation to comply with such a summons. Many recipients make the mistake of appearing for questioning and giving a statement without legal representation. These statements often lead to irreparable damage in the subsequent trial.
We advise you not to attend the summons appointment. Ignoring a police summons will not result in any disadvantages for you. However, you should not ignore the letter either. An investigation usually means that you will face further action by the police or the public prosecutor’s office. Instead, contact our law firm immediately upon receipt of the summons.
We then request access to the files. Only with this access can we and you assess what you are accused of and what information the police have gathered to date. Only on this basis can we develop a sound defense strategy. Only then can we determine, for example, whether you should permanently exercise your right to remain silent.
This tip is important if you do attend a subpoena: Statements made during an interrogation cannot be erased. Often, defendants defend themselves with good intentions when summoned by the police. Legal laypeople and people who have no experience with interrogations cannot recognize the potential negative consequences. Therefore, it is better not to appear, as you will wisely not reveal any information anyway.
