LITIGATION
Criminal Litigation
‒ We provide comprehensive legal representation for individuals facing criminal charges of minor severity level. Our services include legal consultation, defense strategy development, courtroom representation, plea negotiations.
We handle cases involving road traffic law, white-collar crime, and more. We work diligently to protect your rights and aim for the best possible outcome —whether that means reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or full dismissal.
If a conviction is unavoidable, we advocate for the most lenient sentencing available under the law.
‒ We also represent clients in private criminal procedures. These are criminal cases initiated by individuals rather than the State, typically involving minor severity level offences, such as violations of the Roads and Buildings Regulation Law.
Our Services
- Case Assessment and Investigation.
Interviewing Clients and/or witnesses, gathering evidence-e.g., police testimonies, authorities permits, etc.-, and assessing the merits of the case to determine the best course of action, admission or not of guilt.
- Official Letters and Formal Correspondence.
Official letters, to relevant authorities, and third parties, promoting the progress of the case.
- Pleadings and Legal Documentation.
Drafting of essential legal court documents such as Indictments, Applications for interim orders, Affidavits.
- Initial Court Appearances for the Case Progress.
The Court Judge sets timelines for the exchange of evidence, determining whether setting bail conditions, or giving preliminary rulings on legal matters, scheduling hearings and ensuring that the proceedings progress efficiently.
The Defendant usually must appear before the Criminal court on every scheduled court date. The Defendant’s presence is secured either by an Arrest Warrant or a Court Summons.
- Requesting Experts Reports.
Consult with Experts in fields such as, engineering, or finance or any other, to support our client’s case, if and when needed. The Experts provide professional opinions based on the evidence. These reports can be used to clarify complex issues and are shared between the parties and the Court during the case legal proceedings.
- Negotiation and Settlement
Negotiation Discussions refers to procedures where the Defendant’s lawyer and the Prosecution lawyer reach an agreement to resolve the case without proceeding to a full trial.
In some cases, the Prosecution may Withdraw Charges based on negotiated outcomes or insufficient evidence.
- Mitigation in case of Admission.
Before sentencing, the Defendant’s Lawyer submits mitigating evidence to persuade the court for a more lenient sentence, which includes personal circumstances, remorse, no prior convictions, cooperation with police or the relevant authorities, etc.
- Pre-Hearing Case Preparation where No Admission.
Preparation of legal arguments, summoning witnesses, witnesses written declarations, evidence, expert reports, and cross-examining questions.
- Case Hearing where No Admission.
Presenting witnesses and evidence, examining witnesses, and making persuasive written Arguments referencing to binding Caselaw and Legislation, to achieve a favorable outcome.
Criminal Litigation
Punish conduct that is considered an offense against society or the Country.
Areas of Practice
Road Traffic Law
Road Traffic Law violations may involve, breaches of road safety laws, such as, Driving while intoxicated by alcohol, Reckless or Dangerous Driving, Driving in a manner that endangers lives or property, Hit and Run, Speeding. Driving without a License or with a Suspended License or without Insurance.
If found guilty, penalties should include fines, license suspension or loss, penalty points on a driving license, or even imprisonment-depending on the severity of the violation.
Social Security Services Law
Social Security Services Law violations may involve ,non-payment of social insurance contributions, failing to register employees for social insurance, fraud, deception, or falsification in claims or contributions.
If found guilty, penalties should include fines, repayment of due contributions, often with added interest, or even imprisonment or suspension of business activities-depending on the severity of the violation.
Tax Law
Tax law violations may involve, tax evasion, failure to submit tax returns, providing false tax information.
If found guilty, penalties should include fines, repayment of taxes, often with added interest, or even imprisonment or suspension of business activities-depending on the severity of the violation.
VAT Law
VAT law violations may involve, Non-payment of VAT, failure to Maintain VAT Records, failure to Register for VAT, Submission of False VAT Returns.
If found guilty, penalties should include fines, repayment of VAT, often with added interest, or even imprisonment or suspension of business activities-depending on the severity of the violation.
Roads and Buildings Regulation Law
Roads and Buildings Regulation Law violations may involve, Building without a Permit, Deviation from Approved Plans, Construction in Protected Zones-agricultural, environmental, or archaeological protection-, failure to comply with Safety Regulations, Construction on land without valid ownership or title, or Illegal construction on public or government land.
If found guilty, penalties should include fines, Demolition orders for Illegal structures, or even imprisonment or suspension of business activities-depending on the severity of the violation- and also, inability to register the Building with the Land Registry.
Legal Aid is available to almost Everyone, and, concerns Individuals who cannot afford legal representation and are in financial need. When it comes to criminal litigation is granted upon request, when Individuals are accused of a serious offence and where imprisonment may be imposed.
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Benefits
• Upholds Rule of Law
• Protects Victims and Society
• Promotes Deterrence
• Public Confidence in Justice System
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FAQ
1. Why instruct a Litigator in Cyprus?
Litigators play a crucial role in the legal system by advocating for clients in disputes, navigating the complexities of litigation, and striving to achieve favorable outcomes through exercising their skills, including analytical thinking, research proficiency, strong writing and communication, courtroom experience and negotiation skills.
2. Is a Lawyer needed for minor offenses charges?
Yes. Even for minor charges, a criminal record can have serious long-term effects. A lawyer can help protect the Defendant’s rights, negotiate outcomes, and guide through the whole process.
3. How long does a criminal case take in Cyprus?
Civil cases in Cyprus can take approximately 2-3 years at first instance for full trial (reaching the Hearing stage), depending on the complexity and court workload.
4. What are the costs associated with litigation?
Litigation costs in Cyprus can include, Court fees, Legal fees, Expert fees and Disbursements.
5. Can I Appeal a Court decision?
Yes, decisions made by the District Courts in Cyprus can be appealed to the Supreme Court within a statutory stated timeline. The appeal must be based on legal grounds, such as errors in law or procedure. The Supreme Court’s decision is final and binding.
6. How can I initiate a criminal litigation case in Cyprus?
To initiate a criminal case, an indictment will need to be submitted with the appropriate court. This document outlines the facts of the case, and, the legal basis for the complaint.
It’s advisable to consult with a qualified lawyer to ensure that the indictment is properly drafted and filed in a timely manner.
7. What an Injunction is?
An injunction is a legal order issued by a Court that requires a person or entity to either do a specific act (mandatory) or refrain(prohibitory) from doing something. It is a powerful remedy used to prevent harm that cannot be adequately addressed through monetary compensation alone.
Injunctions are commonly used in situations involving property disputes, breaches of contract, or to protect individuals from harm.
There are different types of injunctions, including interim (temporary) injunctions granted before a trial to maintain the status quo, and permanent injunctions issued after a case is decided.
8. How are Pleadings served abroad?
The Court may allow substitute service (such as by email or courier) or service abroad, relevant application requesting the necessary court orders should be submitted.
9. How are the legal fees costs calculated?
The legal fees are usually calculated in accordance with the Cyprus Bar Association Regulations about Lawyer’s remuneration. However, the Client and the Lawyer might agree the lawyer’s fee to be calculated on an hourly rate or on a fixed quote.
*The above constitute general information and does not substitute professional legal advice or consultation, which shall be sought prior of taking any action.