Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Chile

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Iquique, Chile

English
Iligaray y Cía. Ltda. is a full-service law firm headquartered in Iquique that brings more than twenty years of regional experience to complex legal matters. The firm maintains correspondent relationships in major Chilean cities and combines multidisciplinary expertise in environmental and...

English
Nelson Salas Stevens & Cía is a boutique law firm in Chile, exclusively dedicated to criminal defense. The firm is led by Nelson Salas Stevens, a distinguished attorney with a Master's in Criminal Law and Criminal Sciences from the University of Barcelona and Pompeu Fabra University. The team...
Viña del Mar, Chile

English
MGM Abogados is a Viña del Mar based law firm that focuses on litigation and advisory work across family, labor, criminal, civil and commercial matters. The practice publishes case results and legal commentary and routinely undertakes matters before local courts and higher tribunals, reflecting a...
Ciudad Legal
Valparaíso, Chile

Founded in 2010
English
Ciudad Legal, founded in 2010 by Antón Carrasco Guzmán, is a Valparaíso-based Chilean law firm specializing in complex criminal defense and high-stakes litigation. The firm combines strategic litigation design with rigorous courtroom advocacy to address violent, sexual and economic crimes, as...
Quillota, Chile

Founded in 2022
3 people in their team
English
Irarrázabal Abogados is a multidisciplinary law firm based in Quillota, Chile, serving clients across the Valparaíso Region. The firm was founded in 2022 by lawyer Lucas Irarrázabal Gutiérrez and provides specialized legal services in corporate, labor, tax, civil, criminal and family matters...

5 people in their team
English
V&G Abogados Tributarios is a Chilean law firm based in Concepción that provides integrated legal services across civil, corporate, criminal and tax matters, delivering comprehensive solutions to individuals and companies. The firm is led by Juan Pablo Valenzuela Oyarzo, a Magister in Derecho...
CMG ABOGADOS
Santiago, Chile

English
CMG Abogados is a Chile based law firm that provides targeted legal counsel to individuals and businesses across civil, commercial, penal, labor, family and public law matters, serving clients in Chile and abroad and maintaining an international presence with an office in Madrid since 2019. The...

English
Mesa Legal is a Santiago-based law firm that provides focused legal representation across criminal, labor, family, civil and estate matters. The firm positions experienced litigators and specialist lawyers to handle both judicial and extrajudicial disputes, combining courtroom advocacy with...

English
Espinosa y Cía Abogados is a Talca-based firm serving the Maule Region with a focus on high-value tax strategy, complex economic litigation, and the protection of family and corporate wealth. Led by founder Arturo Espinosa and attorney Javier Espinosa, the team integrates legal, accounting, and...

English
Viescob Abogados & Asociados Ltda. is a Chilean multidisciplinary law firm that specializes in criminal, labor, civil, real estate and family matters. The firm is recognized for its extensive track record, professional excellence and a commitment to clients, providing specialized guidance and...
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About Criminal Defense Law in Chile

Criminal Defense in Chile refers to the legal representation and defense of individuals or entities accused of committing a crime. A criminal defense lawyer helps clients navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system in order to protect their rights and achieve the best possible outcome in their case.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are various situations in which you may require the services of a criminal defense lawyer in Chile. These can include being accused of a crime, being investigated by law enforcement, or facing criminal charges. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, build a strong defense strategy, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court.

Local Laws Overview

In Chile, the criminal justice system is based on the Napoleonic Code, which emphasizes the principle of adversarial proceedings. Key aspects of local laws relevant to criminal defense include the presumption of innocence, the right to legal representation, the right to remain silent, and the right to a fair trial.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if I am arrested?

If you are arrested in Chile, it is important to remain calm and assert your right to legal representation. Do not make any statements to the police without your lawyer present.

2. Can I represent myself in a criminal case?

While it is possible to represent yourself in a criminal case, it is highly recommended to hire a criminal defense lawyer with experience in Chilean law to ensure your rights are protected and to mount a strong defense.

3. What are the penalties for criminal offenses in Chile?

The penalties for criminal offenses in Chile vary depending on the nature and severity of the crime. They can range from fines and probation to imprisonment or even capital punishment for certain offenses.

4. How long does a criminal case typically take in Chile?

The duration of a criminal case in Chile can vary depending on various factors, such as the complexity of the case, the backlog of the courts, and the efficiency of the legal process. Some cases can be resolved quickly, while others may take months or even years to reach a conclusion.

5. Can I appeal a criminal conviction in Chile?

Yes, you have the right to appeal a criminal conviction in Chile. An appellate court will review the case to determine if any legal errors were made that may have affected the outcome.

6. What is the role of a criminal defense lawyer in Chile?

A criminal defense lawyer in Chile is responsible for defending individuals accused of committing crimes. They provide legal advice, represent clients in court, negotiate with prosecutors, and work to secure the best possible outcome for their clients.

7. How much does it cost to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Chile?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Chile can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the experience of the lawyer, and other factors. It is important to discuss fees and payment options with the lawyer before engaging their services.

8. What are my rights if I am questioned by the police in Chile?

If you are questioned by the police in Chile, you have the right to remain silent and to consult with a lawyer before answering any questions. It is important to assert your rights and not provide any incriminating information without legal representation.

9. What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Chile?

In Chile, crimes are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies based on the severity of the offense. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes that are typically punishable by fines, probation, or short-term imprisonment. Felonies are more serious crimes that carry harsher penalties, such as long-term imprisonment or capital punishment.

10. How can I find a reputable criminal defense lawyer in Chile?

You can find a reputable criminal defense lawyer in Chile by asking for referrals from friends or family, researching online legal directories, or contacting the Chilean Bar Association for a list of qualified lawyers in your area.

Additional Resources

For more information on Criminal Defense in Chile, you can visit the website of the Chilean Bar Association or contact the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights for legal assistance resources.

Next Steps

If you are in need of legal assistance in Criminal Defense in Chile, it is important to contact a qualified criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. They can provide you with guidance, representation, and support throughout the legal process to ensure your rights are protected and to help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Chile through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Criminal Defense, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.