A criminal case usually runs from investigation to prosecution to trial, and sometimes to appeal. Knowing which stage you are in tells you what can still be done and what is at risk.
Where this fits: Spans the whole case.
What happens during the investigation?
The police or prosecution gather evidence, take statements and may question the accused and witnesses.
What you say here is recorded and can be used later.
How is evidence used in a criminal case?
Evidence can include documents, messages, CCTV, reports and witness statements.
The defence examines how each item was obtained, whether it is reliable and what it actually proves.
Can a complaint be withdrawn?
In some offences a complainant's withdrawal or settlement can affect the case.
In others the prosecution can continue regardless. Which applies depends on the offence and stage, so check before assuming the case has ended.
What should I do first?
Find out the current stage
Police, prosecution, court or appeal. Each has different options.
Note every date
Summons dates, hearing dates and any time limits for responding.
Keep a record
Write down what happened and when, while it is fresh.
Get advice before each step
Especially before questioning, a statement or a settlement.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Topics in this area
Within criminal case process we cover:
- Investigation
- Evidence
- Trial
- Complaint withdrawal
- Time limits
Detailed guides
Criminal Investigation
Who investigates a crime in the UAE, what the judicial police and the Public Prosecution can do, and why investigation papers are confidential.
Read the guideCriminal Evidence
How evidence is collected and used in UAE criminal cases, and what the judge can and cannot rely on.
Read the guideCriminal Trial
How a criminal trial runs in the UAE, who must attend, how witnesses are heard and how a judgment is reached.
Read the guideComplaint Withdrawal
When a complainant's withdrawal ends a criminal case and when it does not, and the deadline for filing a complaint.
Read the guideTime Limits
How long the State has to prosecute a crime, what stops the clock and the other time limits that apply during a case.
Read the guideCase Closure
The ways a criminal case can end, including dismissal by the Public Prosecution, termination by waiver or time bar, and judgment.
Read the guideCriminal Conciliation
Which offences can be settled by conciliation, how it works at any stage and what it does to the case.
Read the guidePlea Bargain
How the Public Prosecution can offer a reduced sentence in exchange for acceptance or confession, what the offer can contain and your right to a lawyer.
Read the guideFrequently asked questions
How long does a criminal case take in Dubai?
It varies with the offence, the evidence and the court's schedule. A lawyer who has seen the file can give a realistic estimate.
What is the difference between the police and the prosecution stage?
The police investigate and refer. The public prosecution then investigates further and decides whether to charge, detain, release or refer the case to court.
Can I stop a case by reaching a settlement?
Sometimes, depending on the offence. It is not available for every offence, so get advice first.
Related guides
Police Complaints
Being summoned by the police, or needing to file or answer a complaint.
Read the guidePublic Prosecution
Prosecution investigations, summons, detention decisions and referral to court.
Read the guideCriminal Courts
Hearings in the Court of First Instance, appeal and cassation, and how sentencing works.
Read the guide