Criminal Law · European Union
Been Arrested? Get a Lawyer Who Acts Fast
An arrest is urgent — the hours and days that follow can determine whether you are released, detained or charged. We match you, free of charge, with a vetted criminal lawyer who practises in the country of arrest and can step in quickly to protect your rights and your freedom.
- 155+ legal services, 14 practice areas
- Lawyers across the EU & EEA
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Tell us about your situation and receive a free, confidential case review.
Who this is for
An arrest is the moment the stakes become real — and the moment you most need a lawyer
Being arrested, whether at home, at work, at a border or in the street, is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face — especially in a country where you may not speak the language or understand the system. An arrest means the authorities have taken you into custody because they suspect an offence, and from that moment a series of legal rights and deadlines begins to run. What you say in custody, whether you sign anything, how long you can be held before a judge or prosecutor, and whether you are released or detained all depend on the local procedure, which varies from one European country to the next. Acting quickly is essential. We match you, free of charge, with a vetted criminal lawyer who practises in the country of arrest and can intervene promptly to safeguard your rights, your detention conditions and your case.
Why arrests go badly
In custody, every decision is urgent —
and most people make them alone.
Under pressure and often without the language or the knowledge of the local system, people agree to things that seriously damage their position.
You don’t know how long you can be held
The length of time you can be detained before a judge or prosecutor reviews your case varies by country and offence. Without a lawyer, you may not know when that review should happen or how to ask for it.
Pressure to sign or speak
In custody, you may be encouraged to sign documents you cannot read or to answer questions without understanding the consequences. A lawyer makes sure you understand exactly what you are agreeing to.
Family left in the dark
When someone is arrested, families often don’t know where the person is, what the charges are, or what happens next. A lawyer can establish contact, get clarity and keep loved ones informed.
What you get
A lawyer who moves immediately after an arrest
We only match you with criminal lawyers who can act quickly in the country where the arrest took place.
Immediate intervention
Your lawyer contacts the authorities, the detention facility and, where relevant, the consulate, to establish your location, the reason for your arrest and the next steps without delay.
Detention and bail challenged
Your lawyer reviews whether your detention is lawful, argues for your release or for bail where possible, and challenges any decision to keep you in custody at the earliest opportunity.
Rights and interpreter arranged
You are advised on your right to remain silent and to legal assistance, and an interpreter is arranged where needed so that nothing is lost or misrepresented in translation.
Family and consulate informed
Your lawyer keeps your family updated, coordinates with your consulate or embassy, and makes sure the people who need to know where you are are contacted.
Coverage
Arrest and detention lawyers across Europe
Arrest and pre-trial detention rules are set nationally, so the right lawyer is one who practises in the country where the arrest happened and knows its police, courts and prosecutors. We match cases across the following countries and beyond:
Frequently asked
Arrest — common questions
What are my rights if I’m arrested in Europe?
In EU and EEA countries you generally have the right to be told why you are arrested, to remain silent, to consult a lawyer and to have someone informed of your detention. You also usually have a right to consular assistance if you are a foreign national.
How long can I be held after an arrest?
This varies by country and offence. In most European countries you must be brought before a judge or prosecutor within a limited period, typically within a day or a few days. A lawyer can confirm the exact limit in your jurisdiction.
Should I answer questions without a lawyer?
Generally not. You have the right to remain silent and to legal advice, and it is usually in your interest to speak to a lawyer before answering questions. The precise rules vary by country, so seek advice immediately.
Can a lawyer get me released from custody?
A lawyer can challenge the lawfulness of your detention and argue for release or bail. Whether release is granted depends on the country, the offence and the risk factors involved — no lawyer can guarantee a particular outcome.
My family member has been arrested abroad. What can I do?
Contact a criminal lawyer in that country as soon as possible. The lawyer can locate the person, establish the charges, arrange representation and keep you informed. The consulate can also offer support to the person in custody.
What happens after I’m released from arrest?
Release does not necessarily end the matter — you may still be under investigation or face charges. It is important to continue with a lawyer to understand any conditions attached to your release and what happens next.
Free case review
Arrested? Don’t wait to get help
Tell us where and when the arrest happened and we’ll connect you with a criminal lawyer in that country — free of charge, with no obligation to hire.