Criminal law
The firm assists and defends people under investigation or prosecution, as well as victims, at every stage of criminal proceedings: investigation, police custody, judicial investigation, trial and appeals. We act quickly when the situation requires it, and help victims file complaints and obtain compensation.
What the firm does
- Assistance during police custody and the preliminary investigation
- Defence before the court of first instance and the court of appeal
- Filing complaints with the public prosecutor and joining proceedings as a civil party
- Assistance for victims of violence, fraud or breach of trust
- Bounced cheques, forgery and economic offences
- Applications for provisional release
- Alternative sentences (Law No. 43-22): applications and follow-up
- Appeals to the court of appeal and to the Court of Cassation
If this is your situation
A relative has just been taken into police custody.
You have received a summons from the police, the gendarmerie or the public prosecutor.
You are the victim of fraud, theft or violence and want to file a complaint.
You are being prosecuted and need to prepare your defence.
You want to appeal against a conviction.
How a matter unfolds
- 1
Prompt action
We find out the facts, contact the relevant authorities and assist the person as soon as the law allows.
- 2
Case review
We analyse the police reports, the case documents and the evidence to build the defence or the complaint.
- 3
Defence at trial
We plead before the criminal court, make the relevant applications (provisional release, procedural irregularities, reclassification) and defend the victim's interests where applicable.
- 4
After the judgment
We consider whether to appeal and follow the execution of the sentence, including applications for alternative sentences where the law allows.
Reference texts
- Criminal CodeDahir No. 1-59-413 of 26 November 1962 approving the Criminal Code
- Code of Criminal ProcedureLaw No. 22-01 enacted by Dahir No. 1-02-255 of 3 October 2002
- Alternative sentencesLaw No. 43-22
- Violence against womenLaw No. 103-13 (Dahir No. 1-18-19 of 22 February 2018)
- Judicial organisationLaw No. 38-15
Frequently asked questions
How long can police custody last in Morocco?
For ordinary offences, police custody is in principle 48 hours, renewable once for 24 hours with the authorisation of the public prosecutor, under the Code of Criminal Procedure. Longer periods apply to certain serious offences, such as offences against state security or terrorism. The family of the person in custody must be informed of the measure.
Can you have a lawyer during police custody?
Yes, a person in police custody can ask for the assistance of a lawyer, under the conditions laid down by the Code of Criminal Procedure. The lawyer can speak with them, ensure their rights are respected and prepare the next steps. Contact the firm as soon as you learn of the measure.
How do you file a criminal complaint in Morocco?
A complaint can be filed with the public prosecutor at the competent court, or with the police or gendarmerie. For certain offences, the victim can also refer the matter to the investigating judge through a complaint with a civil party claim. A well-drafted complaint, accompanied by the available evidence (medical certificate, documents, witnesses), helps the investigation.
What are the alternative sentences introduced by Law No. 43-22?
Law No. 43-22 allows the court to replace certain prison sentences with alternative sentences: community service, electronic monitoring, restriction of certain rights or supervision, treatment or rehabilitation measures, and day fines. They do not apply to all offences and require the legal conditions to be met. A lawyer can ask the court for them where the case lends itself to it.
Related practical guides
This practice area, near you
Criminal law, elsewhere in and around Rabat: Rabat, Hay Riad, Agdal, Souissi, Hassan, L'Océan, Yacoub El Mansour, Youssoufia, Takaddoum, Hay Nahda, Salé, Témara, Harhoura, Skhirat, Aïn Aouda and Kénitra.
Let's talk about your situation.
The firm receives you Monday to Friday, by appointment.