Criminal proceedings move fast at the beginning and slowly afterwards. The first hours — a summons, a detention, a first interview — often shape what evidence exists and how it will be read. That is when our involvement makes the biggest difference.
We act for people under investigation and on trial, for companies facing liability for offences committed in their interest, and for victims who want their position heard and their losses compensated.
When to call us
- You have been summoned by the police or a prosecutor, even “only as a witness”.
- You or a relative have been detained, or a remand measure such as house arrest or bail is being considered.
- You have been charged, or have received an indictment.
- A company you manage is being investigated, or assets are subject to forfeiture proceedings.
- You are the victim of a crime and want to take part in the case as a private prosecutor or civil claimant.
Our work includes
- Legal assistance during questioning and police detention
- Defence when remand measures are imposed or reviewed
- Representation before all criminal court instances
- Representation of victims, including civil claims within the criminal case
- Advice on the administrative liability of companies for offences
- Defence in confiscation and asset-forfeiture proceedings
- Applications to the European Court of Human Rights
Questions clients ask
Do I have the right to a lawyer if I am detained?
Yes. Under the Bulgarian Criminal Procedure Code and Art. 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights, anyone detained or charged is entitled to a defence lawyer from the moment of detention or first questioning. You must be told of this right immediately, and you can decline to answer questions until you have spoken to a lawyer.
What happens during the pre-trial phase?
It is run by the prosecution and is not public. Investigators gather evidence, question suspects and witnesses, commission expert reports and may request remand measures. It ends with the prosecutor either filing an indictment in court or terminating the case. Defence counsel can review the file, request investigative steps and submit evidence.
Can a company be held liable for a crime in Bulgaria?
Companies are not prosecuted as defendants, but they can face substantial administrative fines where a manager or employee commits certain offences for the company’s benefit. The company may also lose the benefit obtained. These proceedings run alongside the criminal case and need their own defence.