Homicide or attempted homicide in Hungary? English-speaking criminal defence lawyer, 0–24

In cases of homicide, attempted homicide or negligent homicide, the suspect is almost always taken into custody with an application for pre-trial detention. A family abroad needs a lawyer who acts immediately and communicates with them in English.

Dr. László-Tamás Benő: +36 70 379 0245 (0–24)

Call now: Dr. László-Tamás Benő

What does Hungarian law say?

Homicide (Section 160): intentionally killing another person; attempt is punishable in the same way.

Homicide in the heat of passion (Section 161): if the offender acted in a state of intense emotional disturbance caused by a justifiable reason.

Negligent homicide: if death was caused by negligence.

What penalty can you face?

Homicide, basic offence: 5 to 15 years
Aggravated homicide (premeditated, for financial gain, with cruelty, of several people, of a child under 14, after drug use connected with the offence, etc.): 10 to 20 years or life imprisonment
Homicide in the heat of passion: 2 to 8 years
Negligent homicide: 1 to 5 years

Attempt is punishable within the same range as the completed offence.

What should you do now?

Do not make a statement without a lawyer.
Ask for an interpreter in your own language.
Ask for copies of the official records and call us before the interview.
If a family member has been detained in Hungary, find out where they are being held and call us immediately.

How we help

We explain every document and every step of the procedure in English
Immediate attendance at the interview and at the pre-trial detention hearing
Clarifying intent, emotional disturbance and self-defence
Examining the expert opinions, independent experts
Staying in contact with the detained person and the family in English

Frequently asked questions

Can the family abroad hire a lawyer?

Yes. You can call us and instruct us yourself to take over the defence.

Is self-defence possible?

Yes. If the act was necessary to repel an unlawful attack, it is not punishable; in certain situations (e.g. at night, or an armed or group attack) the law presumes that the attack was also aimed at life.

I live abroad. Who will try my case?

An offence committed in Hungary is dealt with by the Hungarian authorities. We can represent you and keep you informed in English.

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)

Benő & Willi Defence Attorneys