Fabian Mölders – Strafverteidiger
Common Criminal Offences in Germany
From the very beginning
Criminal Charges in Germany – What International Clients Should Know
If you are facing criminal allegations in Germany, understanding the accusation is the first step toward protecting your rights.
Many international clients receive letters from the police or public prosecutor’s office and are unsure:
- What offence am I accused of?
- How serious is the allegation?
- Do I need a lawyer?
- What happens next?
German criminal law covers a wide range of offences, from minor allegations to serious felony investigations.
Below you will find an overview of some of the most common criminal offences investigated by German authorities.
Fraud in Germany
Fraud is one of the most common criminal allegations in Germany.
Typical cases include:
- Online fraud
- E-commerce fraud
- Investment fraud
- Banking fraud
- Insurance fraud
Quick Answer
What is fraud in Germany?
Fraud generally involves obtaining a financial advantage by deceiving another person.
Computer Fraud
Computer fraud is closely related to traditional fraud but focuses on the manipulation of electronic systems and data processing.
Common allegations include:
- Online banking misuse
- Unauthorized transactions
- Payment service abuse
- Account manipulation
Quick Answer
What is computer fraud in Germany?
Computer fraud generally involves manipulating electronic systems or data processing in order to obtain an unlawful financial advantage.
Money Laundering
Money laundering investigations have become increasingly common in Germany.
Typical situations involve:
- Cryptocurrency transactions
- Large cash deposits
- Suspicious transfers
- Third-party bank accounts
Many people become suspects without realizing that financial transactions may attract the attention of authorities.
Quick Answer
What is money laundering in Germany?
Money laundering generally concerns transactions involving assets that authorities suspect may originate from criminal activity.
Theft
Theft is among the most frequently prosecuted offences in Germany.
Examples include:
- Shoplifting
- Employee theft
- Bicycle theft
- Theft of personal property
The severity of the case depends on the circumstances and value involved.
Quick Answer
What is theft in Germany?
Theft generally involves taking another person’s property without permission and with the intention of keeping it.
Assault and Bodily Harm
Violent offences range from minor altercations to serious physical injuries.
Common allegations include:
- Assault
- Bodily harm
- Dangerous bodily harm
- Serious bodily harm
These cases often depend heavily on witness statements and medical evidence.
Quick Answer
What is assault in Germany?
Assault generally involves intentionally causing physical harm to another person.
Drug Offences
Drug-related investigations remain a major area of criminal law in Germany.
Typical allegations include:
- Drug possession
- Drug trafficking
- Cannabis-related offences
- Importation of narcotics
Consequences vary significantly depending on the substance, quantity and circumstances.
Quick Answer
What are drug offences in Germany?
Drug offences involve illegal possession, trafficking, importation or distribution of controlled substances.
Extortion
Extortion allegations frequently arise in cases involving threats or demands for money.
Examples include:
- Blackmail
- Threats involving personal information
- Online extortion
- Sextortion allegations
Digital evidence often plays a major role.
Quick Answer
What is extortion in Germany?
Extortion generally involves using threats or pressure to obtain a financial advantage.
Driving Without a Licence
Driving offences are a common reason for criminal investigations.
Typical allegations include:
- Driving without a valid licence
- Driving despite a suspension
- Allowing another person to drive unlawfully
Quick Answer
Is driving without a licence a criminal offence in Germany?
Yes. Driving without a valid licence can result in criminal prosecution.
Hit and Run
Leaving the scene of an accident can lead to criminal proceedings.
Authorities frequently investigate:
- Parking accidents
- Property damage
- Personal injury accidents
Many drivers underestimate the legal consequences.
Quick Answer
What is a hit and run offence in Germany?
A hit and run allegation generally involves leaving the scene of an accident without fulfilling legal obligations.
Criminal Investigations in Germany
Regardless of the specific allegation, many criminal investigations follow a similar pattern:
- Complaint or suspicion
- Police investigation
- Witness interviews
- Search warrants or seizures
- Police summons
- Prosecutorial review
- Possible charges or case dismissal
Understanding your procedural position is often more important than immediately discussing the facts of the case.
Why Early Legal Advice Matters
Many mistakes occur during the first days of a criminal investigation.
People often:
- Speak to the police too early
- Misunderstand the allegations
- Ignore important deadlines
- Attempt to explain the case without reviewing the evidence
Early legal advice can help avoid these problems.
F & Q
Frequently Asked Questions
In many cases, suspects have the right to remain silent.
Depending on the evidence and circumstances, this may be possible.
Early legal representation is often beneficial in criminal investigations.
Yes. International clients can be represented in German criminal proceedings.
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Germany
Whether the allegation involves fraud, money laundering, theft, assault, extortion, drug offences or another criminal charge, understanding the legal situation early is often critical.
German criminal investigations can move quickly, and decisions made during the initial stages frequently influence the outcome of the case.
Attorney Fabian Mölders represents clients throughout Germany and regularly assists international clients facing criminal investigations, police summons and court proceedings.
Contact
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Germany
If you have received a police summons, your home has been searched, your phone has been seized or you are facing criminal allegations in Germany, legal advice should be obtained before making any statement.
Early legal representation may help:
- Protect your rights
- Review the evidence
- Assess possible defense strategies
- Avoid unnecessary mistakes
Attorney Fabian Mölders provides criminal defense services throughout Germany and regularly advises English-speaking clients involved in German criminal proceedings.