Jaime Roriz Advogados

Legal support in filing criminal complaints and during interrogations

The filing of a criminal complaint and attendance at interrogations are important stages in criminal proceedings. A well-structured complaint can be decisive in ensuring the facts are properly set out, the parties involved are identified and the available evidence is presented. Interrogation also requires preparation and legal support, whether before the police, the Public Prosecutor's Office or the court. We intervene by analysing the situation, preparing the client, defining the procedural strategy and attending the relevant steps, ensuring an informed, cautious and legally appropriate approach.

Areas of practice

We intervene in matters relating to criminal complaints, reports and interrogations, seeking to ensure a clear, prepared and appropriate approach for the stage of the proceedings.

Legal support at every stage

We support the client from the initial analysis of the facts through to the filing of the criminal complaint, preparation of statements or participation in interrogations.

Analysis of the facts and evidence

We assess the events, documents, messages, witnesses and other relevant elements in order to determine the best course of action.

Preparing the criminal complaint

We structure the account of the facts, provide the legal framework for the situation and organise the documents that should accompany the complaint.

Preparing for interrogations

We explain the rights, duties, risks and precautions to be taken before making statements or undergoing an interrogation.

Support during procedural acts

We provide representation at proceedings before the police authorities, the Public Prosecution Service or the court, protecting the client's rights and interests.

Frequently asked questions

We clarify some of the most frequently asked questions about filing criminal complaints, reports, interviews and statements in criminal proceedings.

What is the difference between a criminal complaint and a report?
A report is the communication to the authorities of facts that may constitute a crime. A criminal complaint is required in certain offences that depend on a complaint and must be filed by a person with standing to do so, within the legal time limits.
Documents, messages, emails, photographs, witness details, dates, locations and any other material that helps demonstrate the facts reported to the authorities should be gathered.
It depends on the capacity in which the person is called. The defendant has the right to remain silent and not answer questions. Witnesses and other participants have their own duties. The matter should be assessed on a case-by-case basis before the proceeding.

Yes. In many procedural acts it is possible or advisable to be accompanied by a lawyer, especially where defence rights are at issue, there is a risk of being made a defendant, or the statements are relevant to the proceedings.

Book your legal consultation

Tell us about your situation. Our team will assess your request with rigour, confidentiality and attention to detail.