Criminal Law · Portugal
Criminal Law lawyers in Portugal
If you are facing a criminal investigation or charge in Portugal, the right lawyer can make a decisive difference. We match you with registered Portuguese criminal defence lawyers who understand the local courts and procedure.
- Free, confidential matching with specialised lawyers
- Defence for investigations, arrests, bail and trials
- Lawyers registered with the Ordem dos Advogados
Your details are kept confidential and are never shared without your consent.
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Why it matters
Your Criminal Law matter in Portugal, handled with care
If you are being investigated, charged or summoned as a witness in Portugal, the procedural rules are strict and the consequences can be serious. Criminal Law lawyers in Portugal can advise on every stage, from police questioning and pre-trial detention to trial before the judicial courts and any appeal to the Courts of Appeal or the Supreme Court of Justice. Portugal follows a civil law system built on the Criminal Code and the Criminal Procedure Code, so a lawyer who knows Portuguese procedure is essential. Our platform matches you with a registered Portuguese lawyer who handles criminal defence, without charge for the matching. We do not provide legal advice; we simply connect you with the right professional for your situation.
Local specifics · Portugal
How Criminal Law works in Portugal
Portugal has a civil law system based on written codes, and criminal cases are handled by the judicial courts. Understanding the local court structure, the role of the Ordem dos Advogados and the availability of legal aid can help you take the first step with confidence.
Court structure for criminal cases
Criminal cases are heard at first instance by the judicial courts (tribunais judiciais), organised into 23 comarcas with specialised criminal sections. Appeals are heard by the five Courts of Appeal in Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, Évora and Guimarães, and cassation by the Supreme Court of Justice.
Mandatory legal representation
In criminal proceedings the defendant must be assisted by a lawyer. Only lawyers registered with the Ordem dos Advogados may perform reserved acts; practising without registration is unlawful practice of law (procuradoria ilícita), a criminal offence under Law 49/2004.
Access to a defence lawyer
Legal aid is guaranteed by the access to law regime under Law 34/2004. If you cannot afford a lawyer, the Social Security Institute may grant legal aid, including appointment and payment of a lawyer (patrono) or public defender, as well as exemption from court fees.
Court costs in criminal proceedings
Court costs are governed by the Regulamento das Custas Processuais (Decree-Law 34/2008). The court fee (taxa de justiça) is expressed in Unidade de Conta (UC), updated annually, and as a rule the losing party bears the costs. Your lawyer can explain which fees apply to your case.
Lawyers’ fees and party costs
Lawyers’ fees in Portugal are freely agreed between the lawyer and the client; there are no binding official tariffs. A written fee agreement is possible, and the successful party may be reimbursed party costs, including amounts paid to the lawyer up to certain limits.
Data compiled from official Portuguese sources and the European e-Justice portal, as consolidated in 2024.
- National justice systems – Portugal
- Estatuto da Ordem dos Advogados (consolidated version 19.01.2024)
- Prescrição – Diário da República
- Lei 2009-34546475 (Employment dismissal challenge)
- Divórcio por mútuo consentimento – Diário da República
- Código de Processo Civil (Appeal deadlines)
- Prazo impugnação ato administrativo – Diário da República
- Óbito – Portal das Finanças
- Lei 34/2004 (Acesso ao direito e aos tribunais)
- Regulamento das Custas Processuais – Decree-Law 34/2008
Common worries
Facing a criminal matter in Portugal?
You are not alone. These are the situations our lawyers help with every day.
You have been questioned or arrested
Police questioning and pre-trial detention rules are strict. A lawyer can be present and protect your rights from the first moment.
You are charged with an offence
A criminal charge triggers a formal procedure before the judicial courts. You need a defence lawyer who knows Portuguese criminal procedure and can challenge the evidence.
You are a foreign national or expat
Language and procedural differences make criminal proceedings especially stressful. A bilingual lawyer can explain each step and represent you before Portuguese courts.
Why choose us
A calmer way to find the right lawyer
We remove the guesswork from legal representation.
No-cost matching
Getting matched with a specialised criminal lawyer costs you nothing. You only discuss fees directly with the lawyer if you decide to instruct them.
Vetted specialists
We only list lawyers registered with the Ordem dos Advogados who handle criminal defence regularly in Portugal.
Fast first response
You typically hear from a suitable lawyer within 24–48 hours, so you can start protecting your position without delay.
No legal advice, just guidance
We do not give legal advice or promise outcomes. We simply connect you with a lawyer who handles your type of case.
We also cover
Find a lawyer in another European country
Our network spans key European jurisdictions, so if your matter crosses borders, we can connect you with local specialists.
Questions and answers
Frequently asked questions
How do I find Criminal Law lawyers in Portugal?
Use our free matching service. We ask about your situation and connect you with a registered Portuguese lawyer who handles criminal defence. You are not obliged to instruct them; the matching is free and confidential.
Do I have the right to a lawyer if I am arrested in Portugal?
Yes. In Portuguese criminal proceedings, the defendant must be assisted by a lawyer. If you cannot afford one, legal aid under Law 34/2004 may cover the appointment and payment of a defence lawyer.
Can a lawyer from another EU country represent me in a Portuguese criminal case?
Only lawyers registered with the Ordem dos Advogados may perform reserved acts before Portuguese courts. EU lawyers may register under their home title or pass an aptitude exam for full admission.
What does it cost to be matched with a lawyer?
Our matching service is free. Lawyers’ fees are agreed directly with you and are not fixed by official tariffs; you can request a clear fee arrangement in writing.
How quickly can I speak to a lawyer after I request a match?
Most clients receive a first response from a suitable lawyer within 24–48 hours. In urgent situations, such as an arrest, you should state that clearly so we can prioritise your request.
Will the lawyer guarantee a particular outcome?
No. No professional can guarantee a result in criminal proceedings, and you should be cautious of anyone who promises one. A good lawyer will explain the procedure, the evidence and the realistic options under Portuguese law.
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Ready to speak with a criminal defence lawyer in Portugal?
Tell us briefly what happened, and we will match you with a registered Portuguese lawyer who handles criminal matters. Free, fast, confidential.