Lawyer

You may hire a lawyer during the criminal proceedings. The state does not have an automatic duty to provide you with free legal aid.

Right to a lawyer

You may hire a lawyer at any stage of the proceedings. Your lawyer may be present every time you are required, or you choose, to participate in the criminal proceedings. For example, your lawyer may be present while you give testimony, during various investigative actions where your presence is required, at all court hearings etc.

State-paid lawyer

In some circumstances, if you cannot afford a lawyer and you need legal aid to be able to exercise your rights and defend your interests effectively, you may be granted the state-paid lawyer. You are also entitled to state-guaranteed legal aid if you are a minor, or a victim in a case on reward of damages caused by a crime. 

Mandatory legal aid

Investigative officer, prosecutor or a judge may decide on a mandatory legal representation for underage victims in cases concerning sexual crimes or other violent crimes.