If you are a close relative of someone who has died as a consequence of a crime, you have a number of rights. ‘Close relatives’ are those closest to the deceased, such as a spouse, a partner, or a child.

The police or the prosecution service must inform you about your options for following the criminal case. You must also be notified if formal charges are brought in the case. To bring formal charges means that the case will be brought before the court. If you so request, you must also be told where and when any court hearings in the case are being held.

You will also be notified if the police or the prosecution service decide to discontinue investigations or decide not to take the criminal case to court, for example. As a close relative, you are entitled to file a complaint against such decisions.

In special situations, you can ask the police for a legal advocate.

Read more about legal advocates

Find more information about your possibilities as close relatives