I Have Been Summoned to Give a Statement — What Should I Do?

If you have received a summons to give a statement from the police or the prosecutor's office, it means an investigation is being conducted against you. Before you panic, knowing your basic rights will directly shape how the rest of the process unfolds.

What Are the Basic Rights of a Suspect?

The main rights of a suspect during a statement or questioning are:

• The right to defence counsel — You may consult a lawyer before your statement and have your lawyer present during it.
• The right to remain silent — You are not obliged to comment on the alleged offence, and this cannot be interpreted against you.
• The right to be informed of the allegation — You must be told which offence you are being questioned about.
• The right to request evidence be gathered — You may request that evidence in your favour be collected.

What to Do Before Giving a Statement

If the summons arrived in writing, check the date, place and, if included, the alleged offence. Consulting defence counsel before attending is decisive for building the right defence strategy; even if you have previously waived this right, it can be reclaimed.

What to Watch for During the Statement

Make sure what you say is recorded accurately in the transcript, and read it carefully before signing. Where you are not certain of something, saying "I do not recall" or exercising your right to silence is preferable to giving a definitive answer, as it avoids later inconsistencies.

What Happens Afterwards?

Once your statement is taken, the file is added to the prosecutor's investigation file, and the process may lead to a decision of no grounds for prosecution, an indictment, or reconciliation, among other outcomes. Having defence counsel follow your file at each of these stages is important for protecting your rights.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please contact our team regarding your specific situation.