The multiple judges chamber consists of three judges who jointly decide on serious criminal cases. This chamber handles complex cases and has the authority to impose stricter penalties than a single judge.
What is the multiple judges chamber?
The multiple judges chamber (MK) is a panel of three judges that deals with serious and complicated criminal cases. It is also referred to as the 'main chamber' of the court.
Key features
| Feature | Multiple judges chamber |
|---|---|
| Number of judges | 3 (1 presiding judge, 2 lay judges) |
| Type of cases | Serious and complex crimes |
| Maximum penalty | Up to the statutory maximum (including life imprisonment) |
| Proceedings | More formal, often over multiple hearing days |
| Judgment | Usually 14 days after the hearing |
Which cases are handled?
The multiple judges chamber takes on the most serious criminal cases.
Examples of cases
- Murder and manslaughter
- Serious assault with grievous bodily harm
- Sexual offences such as rape
- Armed robberies and hold-ups
- Large-scale drug cases (trafficking and production)
- Major fraud and deception cases
- Terrorist activities
- Human trafficking
How does the procedure proceed?
The process in the multiple judges chamber is structured and more extensive than in other chambers.
Steps in the process
- Opening of the hearing by the presiding judge
- Verification of identity and explanation of rights
- Reading of the indictment
- Examination during the hearing (witnesses, experts, documents)
- Plea of the public prosecutor
- Defence by the lawyer
- Possible rebuttal and surrejoinder
- Last word of the defendant
- Closure of the investigation
- Judgment (usually after 14 days)
Advantages of a trio of judges
Working with three judges provides additional safeguards in the process.
Reasons for this
- Diverse knowledge and perspectives
- Joint assessment of the judgment
- Lower chance of one-sided views
- Better suited for complicated evidence issues
- Increased credibility for severe sentences
Special circumstances
The multiple judges chamber also handles unique procedures and situations.
Specific cases
- Cases with pre-trial detention
- Cases involving TBS measures
- Confiscation cases
- Proceedings with multiple defendants
- Cases with significant public interest
Is a lawyer necessary?
Although legal assistance is not mandatory in the multiple judges chamber, it is often essential in practice.
Importance of a lawyer
- Possibility of high penalties
- Complicated legal issues
- Extensive and formal procedures
- Negotiations regarding pre-trial detention
Pro forma hearings
In complex cases, a pro forma hearing may take place to discuss organisational matters. The substantive hearing follows at a later time.
Possibility of appeal
If you disagree with the judgment of the multiple judges chamber, you can appeal to the court of appeal. There, the case is reviewed anew by three justices of appeal.
Contact and location in Rijswijk
For cases in Rijswijk, the multiple judges chamber falls under the District Court of The Hague. For legal assistance, you can go to the Legal Counter in Rijswijk.