Detained, suspected or arrested in Hungary? English-speaking criminal defence lawyer, 0–24
If you or someone close to you has been detained, questioned as a suspect or is facing pre-trial detention in Hungary, the first hours are decisive. Our criminal defence lawyers are available day and night, including weekends and holidays, in Budapest and throughout Hungary. We communicate with you and your family in English.
Dr. László-Tamás Benő: +36 70 379 0245 (0–24)
What happens after detention and arrest in Hungary?
Being taken to the police station and questioned as a suspect. Before the interview the police tell you what you are suspected of. You have the right to choose a lawyer and the right to remain silent.
Custody (őrizet). Custody can last for a maximum of 72 hours. During this time the prosecutor decides whether to apply for pre-trial detention. This is when a lawyer can intervene most effectively.
Pre-trial detention (letartóztatás). The investigating judge decides at a hearing where the lawyer can be present and argue for release or a lighter measure, such as criminal supervision (bűnügyi felügyelet), which is similar to house arrest. The decision can be appealed.
Rights of foreign nationals in Hungarian criminal proceedings
- Right to an interpreter: you may use your native language throughout the proceedings.
- Consular notification: you can ask the authorities to inform your country’s consulate or embassy.
- Right to remain silent: you are not obliged to make a statement, and your silence cannot be used against you.
- Right to a lawyer of your choice: your family can also instruct us to defend you.
What should you do now?
If you are questioned as a suspect without a lawyer
- Ask for your lawyer to be notified and to be allowed to attend the interview.
- Decline to make a statement until you have spoken to your lawyer.
- Lodge a complaint against the suspicion.
- Ask for a free copy of the interview record.
If a family member has been detained in Hungary
- Find out which police station or prosecutor’s office is handling the case and where they are being held.
- Call us immediately: as a family member you can instruct us yourself, even from abroad.
How we help straight away
- We contact the authorities and the detained person
- We attend the suspect interview
- We lodge complaints against the custody and the suspicion
- We represent you at the pre-trial detention hearing
- We keep your family informed in English throughout the proceedings
Frequently asked questions
How long can police custody last in Hungary?
A maximum of 72 hours. After that the person must be released, or a judge decides on pre-trial detention.
Do I have to make a statement?
No. You have the right to remain silent, and this cannot be held against you.
Can my family abroad hire a lawyer for me?
Yes. Family members can contact us by phone and instruct us to take over the defence.
Do you only work in Budapest?
No. Our office is in Budapest, but we defend clients throughout Hungary.
Call us now, day or night
Dr. László-Tamás Benő: +36 70 379 0245
Office: Falk Miksa utca 4, mezzanine 4, 1055 Budapest (by appointment only)