Criminal law — Police custody

Police custody lawyer in Metz and Luxembourg

In police custody (garde à vue), the first hours are decisive: what is said — or left unsaid — weighs on the entire procedure. You have the right to a lawyer from the first hour and to remain silent. My role is to intervene quickly, advise you in a confidential consultation and assist you at every interview.

When to call immediately?

In criminal matters, every hour counts. The right reflex is to call as soon as there is an arrest or a summons.

You or a relative have just been placed in police custody or detention.
You received a summons for free-of-constraint questioning, as a suspect or assisted witness.
The police want to question you and you do not know whether you must answer.
Your minor child is being questioned or held in custody.
A search is under way at your home or workplace.
Custody is being extended and you want to understand what comes next (referral, immediate appearance).

Why the lawyer's presence changes everything

The lawyer is not a mere witness: they consult with you confidentially before interviews, access the records and the medical certificate, and attend every questioning and confrontation. Their presence conditions the admissibility of many later steps and protects your rights in a high-pressure moment.

The reflex to remember: wait for the lawyer, explain the situation in a confidential consultation, then agree together on the strategy for the interviews. A statement made alone, under stress, can compromise the whole defence.

The right to silence, a right in its own

You have the right to remain silent (art. 63-1), and that silence cannot be interpreted against you. Depending on the file, staying silent, answering, or answering only certain questions is a strategic choice: it is decided with the lawyer, in light of what the records reveal.

After custody: the possible outcomes

At the end of the measure, the prosecutor decides: release, dismissal, alternative to prosecution, or prosecution. If prosecuted, you may be referred to the prosecutor then directed to an immediate appearance, a CRPC or an investigation. I prepare this next stage from custody so you are never caught off guard.

Frequently asked questions

Should I speak in custody before my lawyer arrives?

No. You have the right to remain silent (art. 63-1) and that silence cannot be held against you. The rule: wait for the lawyer, explain the situation in a confidential consultation, then decide the strategy together. A statement made alone, under stress, can compromise the defence.

How long can police custody last?

24 hours as of right, renewable once with the prosecutor's written authorisation (48 hours in total). For complex offences (organised crime, trafficking, money laundering), up to 96 hours; up to 144 hours for terrorism. Any extension must be reasoned and notified.

Can I choose my lawyer or is one appointed?

You may request the lawyer of your choice; failing that, a duty lawyer is appointed. You, a relative or the person concerned can contact the firm directly for an intervention in Metz and its area.

My minor child is in custody: is a lawyer mandatory?

Yes. For a minor, the lawyer's presence is essential and cannot be waived. Legal aid is granted as of right. The firm is regularly called upon for custody of minors.

Do you also act in Luxembourg?

Yes. A member of the Luxembourg Association of Criminal Lawyers (ALAP) and admitted to the Luxembourg Bar, I act in criminal defence on both sides of the border, including cross-border matters (European arrest warrant, mutual legal assistance).

Official sources & resources

A custody under way? Call directly

For any emergency (custody, questioning, referral), the phone is the fastest way. For other situations, the first meeting is free and assesses the ongoing procedure and the strategy. Offices in Metz (Metz Bar) and Luxembourg City (Luxembourg Bar).

Book a meeting 03 87 75 26 95