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Criminal Defence in the UAE — Experienced Advocates

Being investigated or charged with a criminal offence in the UAE is a serious matter requiring prompt legal advice. UAE criminal law includes Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021, the Crimes and Penalties Law; Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2022, the Criminal Procedures Law; and Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Countering Rumours and Cybercrimes. Our advocates provide criminal defence in the UAE and Dubai from police investigations and Public Prosecution proceedings through trial and criminal appeals.

Criminal Matters We Handle

Police Investigations and Public Prosecution

Early legal assistance can help an accused person understand the allegation, preserve relevant records, and respond appropriately during a police investigation. Under the Criminal Procedures Law, a person who is arrested must be informed of the charge and of the right to remain silent. An advocate may assist during the Public Prosecution stage, attend an investigation, and review investigation papers, subject to the procedures and exceptions permitted by law.

Arrest, Detention, and Bail

Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2022 governs criminal procedure, including arrest, questioning, pretrial detention, provisional release, and bail. Whether release or bail is available depends on the alleged offence, the stage of proceedings, and the decision of the competent authority. We assist clients and families with urgent detention enquiries, representation before the relevant authority, and applications for provisional release or bail where available.

Fraud, Cybercrime, Assault, and Drug Offences

Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021 is the current Crimes and Penalties Law and addresses offences including fraud and assault. Alleged cybercrime is also assessed under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Countering Rumours and Cybercrimes. Drug offences and related procedures can carry serious consequences under the applicable UAE legislation. Each matter requires careful review of the alleged conduct, evidence, intent where legally relevant, and available defence.

Bounced Cheques and Criminal Liability

A cheque returned solely because of insufficient or unavailable funds does not automatically establish criminal liability under the current UAE Commercial Transactions Law, Federal Decree-Law No. 50 of 2022. Such a cheque may be enforced as an executory document for the unpaid amount. Criminal liability may still arise for conduct specifically identified by law, such as certain deliberate actions intended to prevent payment or cheque forgery and fraudulent use. The facts and stated reason for dishonour should therefore be reviewed before determining the appropriate civil, execution, or criminal response.

Criminal Trials and Appeals

We prepare and present criminal defence submissions, assess documentary and technical evidence, and represent clients through the appropriate court stages. Where a judgment may be challenged, we advise on the available criminal appeal route, applicable time limits, and proceedings before the Court of Appeal or Court of Cassation as relevant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I am arrested or questioned by police in the UAE?

Remain calm, ask to understand the allegation, avoid signing a statement you do not understand, and request legal assistance promptly. An arrested person must be informed of the charge and of the right to remain silent. An interpreter may be used in proceedings where a person does not speak Arabic, in accordance with the Criminal Procedures Law.

Can a lawyer assist during a Public Prosecution investigation?

Yes. An advocate may attend the investigation and review investigation papers, subject to the procedures and exceptions permitted by the Criminal Procedures Law, and can advise the accused on the allegation, evidence, and next steps.

Can you assist with bail and detention matters?

Yes. We can review the detention status, liaise with the relevant authority, and seek provisional release or bail where the law and circumstances permit. Availability depends on the offence, evidence, procedural stage, and competent authority’s decision.

Can you represent clients in criminal appeals in the UAE?

Yes. We can assess the judgment and appeal grounds, advise on applicable deadlines, prepare submissions, and represent clients before the Court of Appeal and, where available and appropriate, the Court of Cassation.

Contact Our Criminal Defence Team

If you or a family member is facing a police investigation, arrest, detention, Public Prosecution proceedings, trial, or criminal appeal, contact AddressAE promptly for advice and representation based on the circumstances.

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