Criminal defense in the Czech Republic for foreigners

Being contacted by the Czech police is stressful enough in your own language. In a foreign legal system, with documents in Czech and short deadlines, it is easy to say or sign something that later harms your defense. JUDr. David Rác is a Czech attorney registered with the Czech Bar Association (registration no. 19237). He has practised since 2015 and defends clients in criminal cases in Prague and the Central Bohemian Region. You can talk to him directly in English or German.

When to call a criminal defense lawyer

The earlier, the better. Typical situations in which our clients contact us:

  • Police summons to give an explanation. This often comes before anyone is formally charged, but what you say goes into the file. See what to expect when giving an explanation to the police.
  • Detention. You or someone close to you has been detained by the police.
  • Criminal charges. You have received a resolution on the commencement of criminal prosecution.
  • Penalty order. A court has issued a penalty order without a trial. There is a short deadline to file an objection, and missing it makes the order final.
  • Trial or appeal before a district court, the Municipal Court in Prague or a regional court.
  • Drug possession, traffic offences, fraud or violence. See also drug possession: when is it a criminal offence.

Your rights as a foreigner in Czech criminal proceedings

  • Right to a lawyer from the very beginning, including at the police interview.
  • Right to an interpreter. If you do not speak Czech, you are entitled to an interpreter free of charge and to a translation of the key decisions in your case.
  • Right to remain silent. A suspect or accused person does not have to testify. Whether and how to use this right is best decided with your lawyer beforehand.
  • Contact with your embassy. You can ask the police to inform the consulate of your country that you have been detained.

What happens after detention

The police may detain a suspect for up to 48 hours. Within that time they must either release the person or hand them over to the court with a motion for custody. The judge then has up to 24 hours to decide. For foreigners, prosecutors often argue that there is a risk of flight. A defense lawyer can propose alternatives to custody, for example a financial guarantee or supervision, and argue why custody is not necessary.

How we work

  • First consultation: 1,800 CZK, a flat fee with no time limit. If you then instruct us to defend you, it is credited towards further work.
  • Standard rate 2,500 CZK per hour. We agree the scope and costs in advance.
  • JUDr. Rác handles your case personally and is bound by attorney-client confidentiality.
  • Office in Prague 2 (Pod Slovany 1888/12). We come to the police station or the court with you.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a lawyer for a police interview in the Czech Republic?

You have the right to a lawyer from the first contact with the police, including when you are summoned to give an explanation. What you say is recorded and stays in the file. It is best to talk to a lawyer before the interview, not after it.

Will I get an interpreter?

Yes. If you do not speak Czech, you are entitled to an interpreter free of charge during police and court proceedings, and to a translation of the key decisions in your case. Your lawyer can also speak with you directly in English or German.

How long can the Czech police detain me?

Up to 48 hours. Within that time the police must release you or hand you over to the court with a motion for custody, and the judge has up to 24 hours to decide. Call a lawyer as soon as possible.

How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Prague?

The first consultation with JUDr. Rác costs 1,800 CZK, a flat fee with no time limit. If you then instruct us, it is credited towards further work. Our standard rate is 2,500 CZK per hour, and we agree the scope and costs in advance.

Can you help if a family member or friend has been detained?

Yes. Call us on +420 773 614 343. We will tell you what to do next and, if the detained person agrees, take over their defense.